PRAYERS 


ADAPTED   TO 


FOB  WHICH  PROVISION  IS  HOT  MADE  IN 


THE  BOOK  OF  COMMON  PRAYER. 


ALEXANDER  V.,GRISWOLD, 


BISHOP    OF    THE    EASTERN    DIOCESE. 


PHILADELPHIA:  WILLIAM  MARSHALL  &  CO. 

PROVIDENCE:  MARSHALL,  BROWN  &  CO. 
MDCCCXXXVI. 


Entered  according  to  the  act  of  Congress,  in  the  year  1835,  by 

W.  MARSHALL  &  CO.  in  the  Clerk's  Office  of  the  District  Court  of 

the  Eastern  District  of  Pennsylvania. 

~~ 

-,.-. 

» 


BOSTON: 
SUreotyped  by  Shepard,  Oliver  &  Co. 


PREFACE. 


FORASMUCH  as  many  have  taken  in  hand  to 
set  forth  forms  of  prayer  to  be  used  on  various 
Occasions,  it  will  not,  it  is  hoped,  be  thought 
improper,  that  the  author  of  this  little  book 
should  offer  it  to  the  public.  Should  it  be 
thought  that  what  renders  this  attempt  war- 
rantable makes  it  unnecessary,  it  should  be 
considered,  that  the  Prayers  which  have  been 
published,  though  numerous,  and  many  of  them 
excellent,  are  so  limited  in  regard  to  the  occa- 
sions for  which  they  are  intended,  that  none  of 
them  with  which  I  am  acquainted  are  adapted 
to  all  the  purposes  for  which  these  are  design- 
ed. Many  of  our  people,  of  our  clergy  espe- 
cially, have  long  felt  the  want  of  a  manual  con- 
taining prayers  suitable  for  all  the  occasions  on 
which  they  are  needed,  and  for  which  our 
church  has  not  made  particular  and  full  provi- 
sion. We  have  in  print  many  excellent  forms 
of  prayer  for  visiting  the  sick,  and  for  family 
worship — for  the  latter  especially ;  and  on  this 
subject  we  have  no  want  of  more.  But  on 
other  important  occasions  of  frequent  occur- 
rence we  have  few ;  and  on  some,  for  which 


IV  PREFACE. 

provision  is  attempted  in  this  publication,  we 
have  none.  It  is  from  a  sense  of  this  need, 
and  of  my  duty  as  bishop  of  this  diocese,  and 
from  the  often  repeated  request  of  several  of 
my  brethren,  and  not  from  a  confidence  in  my 
ability,  that  I  have  thus  attempted  what  I  view 
as  a  difficult  and  important  work.  Should  it 
please  God,  in  his  merciful  goodness,  to  make 
it  instrumental  of  some  good,  or  of  inducing 
some  person  of  more  piety  and  wisdom  to  give 
us  something  better  on  a  like  plan,  I  shall  have 
cause  of  thankfulness. 

To  avoid  interference  with  the  labors  of 
others,  and  all  unnecessary  addition  to  the  price 
of  this  manual,  the  offices  of  the  church  are  not 
inserted  in  it.  The  Book  of  Common  Prayer 
is  in  the  hands  of  the  most  or  all  of  those  who 
will  use  this :  the  price  of  that  is  now  very 
low  ;  and  can  be  obtained  of  any  size  or  con- 
venient form.  This  is  not  intended  as  a  sub- 
stitute for  the  Prayer  Book,  nor  considered  as 
worthy  to  be  bound  in  the  same  volume  with 
any  parts  of  it ;  but  is,  at  the  discretion  of  our 
people,  permitted  to  be  used  when  the  prayers 
it  contains  are  judged  to  be  appropriate  and 
fitting.  My  object  being  not  to  make  a  book, 
but  to  supply  certain  prayers  that  are  truly 
needed,  I  have  been  careful  not  to  enlarge  the 
work  nor  increase  its  price  by  the  addition  of 
any  extraneous  matter. 

I  have  endeavored  to  set  forth  such  as,  in 
my  judgment,  are  most  needed  for  use  and  edi- 
fication. That  better  may  be  prepared  I  have 


PREFACE. 


no  doubt :  till  such  appear  these  may  be  used. 
They  are  all  designed  for  occasions  of  social 
worship.  In  private  devotions  forms  are  less 
needed ;  and  many  of  these  may  be  used  by 
one  person  in  his  closet,  changing  the  plural  of 
the  pronoun  into  the  singular  number. 

Though  we  have,  in  the  Prayer  Book,  an 
office  for  visiting  the  sick,  it  is  generally  allow- 
ed that  something  more  is  wanted  in  the  per- 
formance of  that  important  duty ;  and  many 
prayers  for  this  purpose  have  been  published 
and  used :  and  it  is  hoped  that  what  are  here 
published,  with  some  additions  for  other  occa- 
sions, will  meet  with  the  like  indulgence.  It 
will  be  seen  that  permission  is  given  to  use 
these  forms  ;  but  no  one  is  laid  under  any  obli-, 
gation  to  do  it,  who  thinks  that  others  are  bet- 
ter and  more  appropriate. 

To  seek  honor  for  ourselves  in  praying,  or 
in  compiling  prayers,  would  be  highly  improper 
and  indeed  sinful.  In  preparing  these,  I  seek 
not  the  praise  of  originality ;  but  gladly  avail 
myself  of  the  labors  of  others.  Next  after  the 
Holy  Scriptures,  I  have  preferred  the  language 
of  the  Book  of  Common  Prayer,  and  in  many 
instances  I  have  adopted  the  expressions  of 
other  writers.  If  we  have  forms  of  sound 
words,  suitable  for  those  who  would  unite  in 
God's  holy  worship,  by  whom  the  words  were 
first  used  is  of  very  little  importance,  the  in- 
spired writings  excepted. 

With  the  following  prayers,  it  is  understood 
that  the  Lord's  Prayer,  and  any  others  con- 
1* 


Vi  PREFACE. 

tained  in  the  Prayer  Book,  may  be  used,  at  the 
discretion  of  the  person  who  conducts  the  wor- 
ship. They  are  offered  to  the  public  as  helps 
to  devotion ;  and  any  use  of  all,  or  a  part  or 
parts  of  them,  which  will  have  that  effect,  will 
be  agreeable  to  what  the  author  desires. 


PREFACE  TO  THE  SECOND  EDITION. 


WITH  diffidence  and  after  long  delay,  was 
published  a  manual  of  prayers  adapted  to  oc- 
casions of  social  worship,  for  which  provision 
is  not  particularly  and  fully  made  in  the  Book 
of  Common  Prayer.  That  such  a  work  was 
needed  appears  in  the  call  for  another  edition ; 
and,  as  it  is  not  known  that  any  other  work  on 
a  like  plan  will  be  given  to  the  public,  the  au- 
thor has  endeavored,  by  corrections  throughout, 
and  very  considerable  additions,  to  render  this 
more  suitable  for  the  purpose  intended.  It  was, 
and  still  is  his  humble  hope,  that  such  a  publi- 
cation may,  through  God's  blessing,  be  instru- 
mental in  causing  prayer  to  be  offered,  at  times, 
and  on  some  occasions,  when,  without  suitable 
forms  prepared,  it  would  be  neglected;  and 
also  in  obviating  the  necessity  of  extemporary 
praying,  which,  in  his  opinion,  is  less  suitable  for 
social  worship. 

The  church  has  set  forth  forms  for  some  oc- 
casions of  frequent  occurrence  and  general 
need  ;  but  some  even  of  those  contained  in  the 
Prayer  Book  are,  as  almost  all  allow,  defective. 
Such  are  those  for  families,  for  the  sick,  and 
for  funerals.  In  the  service  for  funerals,  we 


V1H  PREFACE   TO   THE    SECOND   EDITION. 

have  no  prayer  appointed  to  be  used  at  the 
house  of  mourning,  or  in  the  church.  And 
surely  on  no  occasions  do  we  more  sensibly 
feel  the  need,  and  fitness,  and  comfort  of  unit- 
ing in  earnest,  appropriate  prayer. 

The  author  is  aware,  that  in  the  opinion  of 
some  few  of  our  people,  no  other  forms  than 
those  contained  in  the  Book  of  Common  Prayer 
are,  for  any  occasions,  needed.  But  very  many 
are  fully  convinced  that  we  should  dwell  with 
much  earnestness  in  united  prayer  for  things 
and  on  subjects  which  are  but  very  briefly,  if 
at  all,  noticed  in  our  Liturgy.  That  such  is  the 
view  and  intention  of  our  church  is  evident 
from  her  having  provided  forms  for  some  par- 
ticular occasions,  and  given  directions  for  pro- 
viding others,  according  as  they  are  needed. 
The  two  extremes  of  wholly  rejecting  prescript 
forms,  and  the  using  of  none  but  those  which 
the  church  has  already  set  forth,  are  departures 
from  that  middle  course,  by  which,  in  this,  as 
in  other  things,  her  wisdom  is  evinced.  In  the 
author's  belief  no  one  thing  has  tended  more  to 
increase  the  prejudice  against  our  Liturgy,  than 
the  using  of  it  on  occasions  to  which  it  is  not 
adapted,  and  for  which  it  was  not  designed. 

It  is  with  the  earnest  desire  that  family  de- 
votion may  be  more  generally  practised  by  our 
people,  that  so  great  a  number  of  forms  for 
family  prayer  is  added  in  this  edition. 

For  the  accommodation  of  those  who  prefer 
the  Collects  of  the  Prayer  Book,  a  few  of  them 
are  inserted  for  the  use  of  Sunday  schools. 


.     •  . 

-.-, 

. 

Fjfe--  *  " 

iX  PREFACE   TO   THE   SECOND   EDITION. 

Many  of  the  prayers  contained  in  this  book 
may  be  with  fitness  used  by  individuals,  in  their 
private  devotion,  by  changing  the  first  person 
of  the  pronoun  and  the  verb  from  the  plural  to 
the  singular  number.  That  the  Lord  will  bless 
this  humble  effort  to  the  promotion  of  his  honor 
and  worship,  and  to  the  salvation  of  mankind, 
is  the  prayer  of 

THE  AUTHOR. 


CONTENTS. 


PART   FIRST. 

PRAYERS   FOR   SUNDAY   AND   OTHER   SCHOOLS. 

Introductory  Remarks, 15 

A  Prayer  that  we  may  be  thankful  for  God's  blessings,  and  have 

grace  rightly  to  use  them. 17 

Another,  for  the  use  of  a  Sunday  School, IS 

A  Prayer  to  be  used  by  a  Minister,  or  other  suitable  person,  for  a 

Sunday  School 19 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  by  Sunday  School  Teachers  in  the 

School  or  in  their  other  Meetings, 21 

Another  Prayer  for  the  use  of  a  Sunday  School,         ....  23 

i  'ullects  suitable  for  opening  a  Sunday  School,       ....  25 

Collects  suitable  for  closing  a  Sunday  School, 26 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  the  Closing  of  a  Sunday  School,  .  27 

Directions  for  a  larger  Form  of  Sunday  School  Devotions,       .       .  28 

A  Prayer  that  may  oe  used  in  and  for  any  School,  ....  29 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  any  School,^      .       .  31 

For  the  Closing  of  any  School, 33 

Prayers  that  may  be  used  on  any  occasions  of  Catechising  Children, 

or  in  Sunday  Schools, 34 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  Meetings  of  Bible  Classes,     .       .  36 
A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  Meetings  of  Bible  Societies  or  Asso- 
ciations,           39 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  a  Singing  School,  or  a  Meeting  to 

practise  Psalmody, 41 


PART   SECOND. 

PRAYERS   FOR   THE  USE   OF  FAMILIES   AND   FOR   OTHER  OCCASIONS. 

Introductory  Remarks, 43 

Morning  Prayer, 44 

Evening  Prayer 46 

Morning  Prayer, .       .  48 

Evening  Prayer, 50 

A  Prayer  for  Sunday  Morning, 52 


Xll  CONTENTS. 

Sunday  Evening, 64 

Monday  Morning, 56 

Monday  Evening, 58 

Tuesday  Morning, 60 

Tuesday  Evening, 63 

Wednesday  Morning, 65 

Wednesday  Evening, 67 

Thursday  Morning, 70 

Thursday  Evening, 72 

Friday  Morning 74 

Friday  Evening,  ....        • 76 

Saturday  Morning, 78 

Saturday  Evening, 80 

SECOND  WEEK.— Sunday  Morning, 83 

Sunday  Evening, 86 

Monday  Morning,    .       .       .       . 89 

Monday  Evening, 92 

Tuesday  Morning,          95 

Tuesday  Evening, 98 

Wednesday  Morning, 101 

Wednesday  Evening, 1 04 

Thursday  Morning, '.  107 

Thursday  Evening, 110 

Friday  Morning,      .       .       .     *.v"   .    ,'»/..'    >  .'  .       ....  113 

Friday  Evening, 117 

Saturday  Morning, 120 

Saturday  Evening, 123 

For  Christmas  Day "     .       .       .  126 

For  Ash  Wednesday  or  other  Fast, 127 

For  Good  Friday 123 

For  the  Beginning  or  Close  of  a  Year 129 

For  a  Family  under  Afflictive  Visitation,          .  130 
A  Prayer  for  Persons  newly  married ;  which,  with  very  little  alter- 
ation, may  be  used  by  them, 131 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  by  Parishioners  for  their  Minister.  133 
A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  Families,  or  by  companies  of  Chris- 
tians in  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions,    .       .  1 36 

Another, 139 

Another, 1-42 

Another, 145 

For  the  Closing  of  a  Religious  Meeting, 147 

The  Lord's  Prayer,  Paraphrased, ISO 

A  Hymn  to  the  God  of  Christians,     ....       ...  153 


PART    THIRD. 


PRAYERS   WHICH    MAT    BE    USED    IN    MISSIONARY    MEETINGS,   AND    ON 
OTHER   OCCASIONS. 

A  Prayer  for  the  Church, 155 

A  Prayer  for  the  Clergy, 156 

A  Prayer  suitable  for  Associations,  and  other  Meetings  of  the 
Clergy, 158 


CONTENTS. 

( rayers  to  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  a  Meeting,  .  .  .  161 
Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Conclusion  of  a  Meeting,  .  .  .166 
A  Prayer  for  the  Success  of  Missionary  Labors,  .  171 

A  Prayer  for  Missionary  Societies,  and  suitable  to  be  used  in  their 

Meetings, 173 

Another  for  a  Missionary  Society, _ .  _  .  174 

Another  Prayer  suitable  for  Clerical  or  Missionary  Associations,  176 
A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  Meetings  on  Charitable  Occasions, 

after  a  Sermon  and  Contribution, 179 

Another,  more  general, 180 

Another  Prayer  for  the  Meeting  of  a  Charitable  Society,  .  .  181 

For  Improvement  in  Sickness, 182- 

For  a  Person  in  a  Decline, 185 

A  Prayer  for  a  Sick  Person,  when  there  appeareth  but  little  or  no 

hope  of  recovery, 188 

A  Prayer  for  a  Sick  Person,  when  there  is  reason  to  hope  that  he  is 

convalescent, .  190 

A  Prayer  for  one  who,  from  the  nature  of  his_  sickness  or  other  cause, 

is  not  able  to  unite  understandingly  in  it 193 

A  Prayer  for  a  Sick  Child, 195* 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  with  a  Family  and  their  Friends  on  a 

Funeral  Occasion, W 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  a  Funeral,  when  there  is  not  to  be  a 

Service  at  the'  Grave, 201 

A  Prayer  for  a  Family  in  Affliction 204 

A  Prayer  for  a  Prisoner,  or  Prisoners,  under  Sentence  of  Death,  206 

A  Prayer  for  Courts  of  Justice, 208 

A  Prayer  for  a  Legislative  Assembly,  .  «...  210 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  in  a  Town  or  Freemen's  Meeting,  .  212 
A  Prayer  suitable  for  a  Temperance  Meeting,  .  .  .  .  215 
A  Form  of  Service  that  may  be  used  at  the  laying  of  the  Corner 

Stone  of  a  Church, 217 


PART   FOURTH. 

OFFICES    AND    PRAYERS    THAT    MAY    BE    USED   IN  CHURCHES,  OH  IN  PUB- 
LIC WORSHIP. 

A  Form  of  Prayer  allowed  to  be  used  on  Days  appointed  by  the  Ci- 
vil Authority  as  Public  Fasts, 223 

A  Prayer  to  be  used  in  Seasons  of  much  Sickness,  or  Epidemic  Dis- 
eases,   223 

A  Thanksgiving  for  Deliverance  from  great  Sickness  and  Mor- 
tality,   230 

An  Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead,  allowed  to  be  used  when  the 
Corpse  is  carried  into  the  Church, 231 

Public  Thanksgiving, 242 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  on  the  Fourth  Day  of  July,  .         245 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  on  occasion  of  the  Close"  of  a  Year,  or 
the  Commencement  of  a  New  Year 247 

For  a  New  Year 249 

*  See  last  page  of  Contents. 


XIV  CONTENTS. 

Prayers  that  may  be  used  at  the  Closing  of  a  Convention,        .  2fl 

A  Pray e*  that  may  be  used  after  an  Evening  Lecture,     .       .       .  253 

AnotLer  which  may  be  used  after  a  Lecture,         .  964 

A  general  P"<*yer  for  Mariners  and  People  at  Sea,     ....  255 

A  Thanksgiving  for  Escape  from  great  Danger  at  Sea,       .       .  256 

Prayers  which  may  be  used  at  Sea  when  the  regular  Public  Service  is 
not  performed. 

A  Prayer  for  God's  Grace  and  Protection,  that  may  be  used  daily,  268 

Another,  for  a  prosperous  Voyage,  and  for  Friends  on  Shore,        .  260 

A  Prayer  which  may  be  used  in  Storms  and  other  Dangers  at  Sea,  261 

A  Form  of  Thanksgiving  at  Sea  for  Escape  from  Danger,         .  263 


A  general  Prayer  for  the  Sick,  with  Collects  adapted  to  some  parti- 
cular Occasions, 264 


PART  FIRST. 

PRAYERS  FOR  SUNDAY  AND  OTHER 
SCHOOLS. 

THE  prayers  used  in  Cunday  schools  should  be 
short,  not  only  to  give  sufficient  time  for  the  other 
exercises,  and  because  such  are  best  adapted  to  the 
state  and  capacities  of  children  and  young  people ; 
but,  chiefly,  because  the  teachers  and  pupils  attend 
the  long  services  of  the  church,  morning  and  after- 
noon, and  unite  in  a  great  variety  of  prayers  and 
thanksgivings. 

And  for  this  last  reason,  it  seems  inexpedient  to 
take  them  from  the  Prayer  Book :  it  is  supposed 
that  the  school  have  just  united,  or  are  about  to 
unite,  with  the  whole  congregation  in  the  prayers 
contained  in  that  book ;  and  to  repeat  them  is  less 
suitable  than  to  have  some  short  forms  appropriate 
to  the  occasion. 

The  prayers  should  also,  in  my  judgment,  be  de- 
signed for  all  the  school — teachers  and  scholars — to 
unite  in.  The  minister  or  superintendent  can  pray 
for  the  scholars  in  his  closet.  If  he  does  it  in  the 
school,  it  is  his  prayer  rather  than  theirs :  and 
though  hearing  prayer  is  no  doubt  profitable,  it  is 
more  agreeable  to  the  views  of  Episcopalians  that 
the  prayers  should  be  social ;  that  all  present  should 
unite  in  praying.  Yet  some  of  the  prayers  which 
follow  are  accommodated  to  the  views  of  those  who 
may  think  differently. 


16  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

The  Lord's  Prayer. 

In  some  of  the  forms  of  prayer  published  for  the 
use  of  Sunday  schools,  it  would  seem,  from  the  di- 
rections given,  that  the  minister  and  the  children 
are  to  perform  the  whole ;  but  surely  the  teachers 
should  always  be  supposed  to  bear  a  part,  if  not  the 
principal  part  in  the  worship.  They  generally  feel 
most  interested;  they  can  pray  more  understand- 
ingly  than  the  children ;  and  none  can,  more  than 
they,  need  the  grace  of  God,  and  the  wisdom  which 
is  from  above,  to  direct  and  sustain  them  in  the 
very  important  labor  of  love  in  which  they  are 
charitably  engaged.  Among  the  prayers  following 
are  some  suitable  for  the  teachers,  when  they  desire 
to  unite  in  praying  for  those  under  their  care. 

When  a  clergyman  visits  and  prays  in  a  common 
school,  it  is  not  generally  expected  that  the  scholars 
will  take  a  part  in  the  worship ;  it  is  his  prayer  for 
the  school. 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven,  hallowed  be  thy 
name.  Thy  kingdom  come ;  thy  will  be  done  on 
earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses,  as  we 
forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us.  And  lead 
us  not  into  temptation ;  but  deliver  us  from  evil. 
For  thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the 
glory,  for  ever  and  ever.  Amen. 

The  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
of  God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
with  us  all  evermore.  Amen. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  17 

A  Prayer  that  we  may  be  thankful  for  God's  blessings. 


A  Prayer  that  we  may  be  thankful  for  God's  blessings,  and  have  grace 
rightly  to  use  them. 

ALMIGHTY  and  immortal  God,  the  aid  of  all  who 
need,  the  Giver  of  all  spiritual  grace,  and  the  Au- 
thor of  everlasting  life,  with  humble  hearts  and 
sincere  devotion,  we  implore  thy  favor  and  blessing 
upon  us,  thy  sinful  creatures.  Unable  of  ourselves 
to  help  ourselves,  unworthy  to  appear  before  thee, 
and  trusting  not  in  our  own  righteousness,  but  in 
thy  mercy  through  Jesus  Christ,  we  beseech  thee, 
for  his  sake,  to  pardon  our  sins,  to  sanctify  our 
hearts,  and  to  hear  our  prayers.  To  thee  alone  be- 
long mercy  and  forgiveness ;  to  thee  alone  it  apper- 
tains to  forgive  sins.  Blot  out,  we  beseech  thee, 
our  manifold  transgressions,  and  renew  a  right  spirit 
within  us. 

Great,  O  Lord,  is  thy  goodness ;  unnumbered  are 
the  benefits  which  thou  art  daily  bestowing  on 
mankind.  We  adore  thee  for  thine  infinite  perfec- 
tions ;  we  bless  thy  holy  name,  for  thy  unspeakable 
goodness  vouchsafed  to  our  sinful  race,  and  espe- 
cially for  the  religious  privileges  which  we  enjoy. 
We  give  thee  thanks  for  the  weekly  return  of  thy 
holy  day^.for  all  the  means  of  grace,  and  for  the 
hope  of  life  immortal.  We  desire,  O  God,  with 
thankful  hearts,  to  acknowledge  thy  goodness,  in 
causing  the  Holy  Scriptures  to  be  written  for  our 
learning,  and  for  giving  us  various  means  of  know- 
ledge and  helps  to  religious  improvement ;  for  the 
establishment  and  increase  of  schools  and  semina- 
ries of  learning  throughout  our  country ;  and  espe- 
cially of  those  schools  and  associations,  which  have 
for  their  object  the  instruction  of  children  and  of 
others,  in  the  knowledge  of  thy  word,  in  the  doc- 
trines of  Christ,  and  the  duties  of  religion.  We 
2*  B 


18  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Another,  for  the  use  of  a  Sunday  School. 

bless  thee,  O  God,  that  many  are  willing,  with  pa- 
tient diligence  and  pious  zeal,  to  devote  a  part  of 
the  Lord's  day  to  the  instructing  of  the  rising  gene- 
ration in  the  rudiments  of  gospel  truth ;  beseeching 
thee,  O  God,  to  increase  their  numbers,  to  enlarge 
their  hearts,  to  strengthen  their  hands,  and  reward 
their  labor  of  love.  Give  us  hearts,  O  Lord,  we 
humbly  beseech  thee,  to  be  duly  thankful  for  these 
thy  mercies,  and  give  us  grace  to  use  them  to  thy 
glory,  and  to  the  promotion  of  our  own  and  others' 
salvation.  May  we  remember  the  Lord's  day,  to 
keep  it  holy;  may  it,  by  all  thy  people,  be  reli- 
giously devoted  to  thy  holy  worship,  and  to  teach- 
ing, and  learning,  and  practising  the  truth  and  pre- 
cepts of  the  blessed  gospel.  And  may  thy  truth  be 
so  grafted  inwardly  in  our  hearts,  as  to  establish  us 
in  a  right  faith,  and  bring  forth  in  us  the  fruit  of 
good  living,  to  the  honor  and  praise  of  thy  holy 
name,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 


Another,  for  the  use  of  a  Sunday  School. 

O  LORDJ  our  heavenly  Father,  almighty  and 
everlasting  God,  who  hearest  the  prayers  of  those 
who  believe  and  trust  in  thee,  look  down,  we  be- 
seech thee,  with  thy  favor  and  blessing,  upon  us 
thy  servants,  here  assembled  to  teach  thy  truth  and 
to  learn  thy  will.  Give  us  grace  to  love  thy  law, 
and  thankfully,  and  with  faithful  diligence,  to  apply 
our  hearts  to  the  teaching,  and  to  the  attainment 
of  whatever  is  most  profitable  for  doctrine,  for  re- 
proof, for  correction,  and  for  instruction  in  right- 
eousness. Open  our  understandings,  that  we  may 
understand  the  Scriptures ;  and  give  us  grace,  in  an 
honest  and  good  heart,  to  receive  that  instruction 
which  will  make  us  wise  unto  salvation.  Preserve 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  19 

A  Prayer  to  be  used  by  a  Minister. 

us,  O  merciful  Lord,  from  all  sinful  vanities  !  may 
we  love  the  things  which  thou  commandest,  and 
desire,  above  all  other  things,  them  which  thou 
hast  promised  to  those  who  love  and  fear  thee.  Do 
thou,  who  alone  canst  rule  the  hearts  of  sinful  men, 
graft  in  ours  such  love  of  thy  truth,  that  what  is 
our  duty  may  be  our  chief  delight.  O,  may  those 
of  us  present  who  are  still  in  childhood  or  youth, 
remember  our  Creator,  and  gladly  devote  our  hearts 
and  lives  to  God  who  made  us,  and  to  him  who 
has  redeemed  us  with  his  blood :  and  may  we  all 
so  number  our  days,  and  so  truly  consider  the  short- 
ness and  the  uncertain  continuance  of  this  present 
life,  that  we  may  gladly  apply  our  hearts  to  thy 
holy,  heavenly  wisdom :  as  we  advance  in  age, 
may  we  grow  in  grace,  and  in  the  knowledge  of 
Him,  who  is  the  way,  and  the  truth,  and  the  life. 
Give  thy  blessing,  we  beseech  thee,  to  this  school, 
and  to  all  and  each  of  us  who  are  present,  whose 
hearts  and  whose  wants  thou  knowest.  O  give  us 
thy  blessing,  according  as  we  need.  Preserve  us 
from  sin,  awaken  us  to  righteousness,  and  help  us 
daily  to  proceed  in  all  virtue  and  godliness  of  liv- 
ing; so  that  we  may  serve  thee  faithfully  in  this 
world,  and  finally  attain  to  everlasting  life  :  which 
we  ask  and  hope,  only  through  the  merits  of  our 
Lord  and  Savior  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  to  be  used  by  a  Minister,  or  other  suitable  person,  for  a  Sunday 
School. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  the  Father  of  our 
spirits,  and  the  Giver  of  every  good  thing,  merci- 
fully behold  and  bless  this  school,  here  assembled 
in  thy  presence  to  teach  and  to  learn  the  precepts 
and  truths  of  thy  holy  word,  and  the  principles  of 


20  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  to  he  used  by  a  Minister. 

the  doctrine  of  Christ.  Without  thee  nothing  is 
holy,  nothing  is  good :  except  the  Lord  build  the 
house,  they  labor  in  vain  who  build  it.  May  thy 
blessed  Spirit  direct  and  aid  them  in  their  humble 
effoits  to  know  and  do  thy  will :  may  they  receive 
with  meekness  the  ingrafted  word  which  is  able  to 
save  their  souls.  Give  thy  heavenly  benediction 
to  the  teachers  of  this  school,  who  make  a  free  will 
offering  of  their  labor  and  care  in  this  pious  work. 
Remember  them,  O  Lord,  for  good.  Give  them 
wisdom  and  patience  and  grace  to  persevere ;  that 
they  may  not  be  weary  in  well  doing ;  and  may  be 
assured  that  in  due  time  they  shall  reap  if  they 
faint  not.  May  these  hours  charitably  devoted  to 
the  benefit  of  others,  be  sanctified  to  their  own 
temporal  good  and  eternal  gain. 

And  wilt  thou,  O  gracious  God,  open  the  tender 
minds  of  these  children  and  youth,  that  they  may 
understand  thy  word,  and  love  thy  law,  and  delight 
to  do  thy  will.  Preserve  them  from  the  sinful  vani- 
ties which  easily  beset  the  youthful  mind.  Graft 
in  their  hearts  the  love  of  righteousness  and  truth : 
increase  in  their  minds  all  holy  affections,  and  nou- 
rish their  souls  with  the  bread  of  eternal  life :  and 
of  thy  great  mercy  keep  them  steadfast  in  the  ways 
of  thy  laws  and  in  the  works  of  thy  command- 
ments. May  they  be  trained  up  in  the  way  that 
they  should  go,  and  never  depart  from  it :  may  they 
be  so  sanctified  and  renewed,  that  they  may  be 
truly  members  of  Christ,  children  of  God,  and  heirs 
of  his  heavenly  kingdom. 

Direct,  O  Lord,  with  thy  heavenly  wisdom,  and 
bless  the  care  and  watchful  oversight  of  all  parents, 
masters,  and  guardians,  in  their  endeavors  to  bring 
up  children  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of  the 
Lord.  Grant,  if  it  be  consistent  with  thy  unerring 
wisdom,  that  the  lives  of  these  children  and  youth 
may  be  prolonged  upon  the  earth ;  that  they  may 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  21 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  by  Sunday  School  Teachers. 

fill  and  discharge,  with  honor  to  themselves  and 
usefulness  to  society,  the  several  stations  and  duties 
of  life  to  which  thou  shalt  -  call  them.  And  when 
they  shall  have  served  thee  in  their  generation,  may 
they  be  received  into  heavenly  habitations,  and  en- 
joy an  endless  Sabbath  of  happiness  and  rest  from 
sorrow,  labor,  and  care.  Hear  us,  O  thou  God  of 
mercy,  hear  and  bless  us  all,  for  the  sake  of  thy 
Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen, 


A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  by  Sunday  School  Teachers  in  the  School 
or  in  their  other  Meetings. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  unto  whom  all 
hearts  are  open,  all  desires  known,  and  from  whom 
no  secrets  are  hid,  cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our 
hearts,  by  the  inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit,  and 
accept  our  humble  supplications  and  prayers. 
Trusting  in  the  word  and  in  the  merits  of  our  bles- 
sed Savior,  who  has  taught  us  to  ask  in  his  name 
that  we  may  receive ;  to  seek  of  thee  our  heavenly 
Father  for  wisdom  and  grace,  that  we  may  know 
and  do  thy  will,  we  beseech  thee  to  behold,  with 
thy  favor  and  blessing,  thy  dependent,  unworthy 
creatures,  who  humbly  desire,  with  penitence  and 
prayer,  to  bow  before  thee.  Help  us  to  know  and 
to  do  thy  will :  direct  us  in  all  our  doings  with  thy 
most  gracious  favor,  and  further  us  with  thy  con- 
tinual help,  that  all  our  works  and  all  our  desires 
may  be  to  thy  glory,  and  to  the  good  of  our  fellow- 
men.  Help  us  especially  to  be  useful  in  our  gene- 
ration, by  imparting  to  children  and  youth  the 
knowledge  of  thy  word  and  will,  and  directing 
them  in  the  way  in  which  they  should  go.  If  such, 
O  Lord,  be  thy  gracious  will,  make  us  instruments 
of  nourishing  the  tender  mind  with  heavenly  wis- 


22  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  by  Sunday  School  Teacheis. 

dom;  of  instructing  the  rising  generation  in  the 
paths  of  righteousness  and  truth ;  of  implanting  in 
the  minds  of  those  who  are  or  shall  be  intrusted  to 
our  guidance  and  care,  the  principles  of  the  doc- 
trine of  Christ,  and  the  duties  of  moral  and  reli- 
gious life.  Do  thou,  O  God,  who  alone  art  suffi- 
cient for  these  things,  and  whose  strength  is  made 
perfect  in  the  weakness  of  thy  servants,  behold  us 
with  compassion  forgive  our  sins,  and  uphold  us 
with  thy  free  spirit.  Preserve  us  from  every  mo- 
tive and  desire  which  is  not  according  to  thy  holy 
will.  Defend  us  from  all  error ;  and  help  us  rightly 
and  truly  to  understand  the  language  01  thy  word, 
the  doctrines  of  Christ,  and  the  duties  of  life.  In- 
spire our  hearts  with  Christian  love,  and  with  a 
holy  desire  to  promote  thy  glory,  and  the  salvation 
of  ourselves  and  others.  Make  us  apt  to  teach. 
May  we  not  be  weary  in  well  doing ;  but  follow 
the  example  of  him,  our  blessed  Lord,  who  express- 
ed his  love  for  children,  and  spent  his  life  in  doing 
good. 

And  behold,  O  God,  we  beseech  thee,  with  thy 
favor  and  blessing,  the  children  and  youth  of  our 
Sunday  schools.  Open  their  understandings  and 
dispose  their  minds  to  receive  instruction,  to  delight 
in  the  paths  of  wisdom,  to  love  the  things  which 
thou  commandest,  and  desire  those  which  thou  dost 
promise.  Sanctify  to  them  the  instructions  of  their 
teachers,  and  all  our  humble  efforts  to  enlighten 
their  minds  with  true  wisdom :  incline  their  hearts 
to  virtue  and  godliness,  and  raise  their  affections 
from  the  world  to  thee.  Awaken  in  their  minds, 
we  beseech  thee,  a  just  and  lively  sense  of  the  vast 
importance  of  early  piety  and  religious  knowledge. 
Give  them  ears  to  hear,  and  hearts  to'  understand, 
and  wills  to  obey  the  things  of  thy  law ;  desiring 
the  sincere  milk  of  thy  word,  that  they  may  live 
nnd  grow  thereby.  Grant  that  they  fall  into  m 


GRISWOLD'S  PRATERS.  23 

Another  Prayer  for  the  use  of  a  Sunday  School. 

sin,  neither  run  into  any  danger  of  soul  or  body ; 
but  that  all  their  doings,  being  ordered  by  thy  go- 
vernance, may  be  righteous  in  thy  sight.  Grant 
that  they  may  be  useful  in  their  generation,  a  com- 
fort to  their  friends,  a  blessing  to  their  country ;  and 
finally,  that  they  may  be  inheritors  of  thy  everlast- 
ing kingdom.  These  things,  and  whatever  else 
thou  shalt  see  fitting  for  us  and  for  all  men,  we 
humbly  ask,  through  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


Another  Prayer  for  the  use  of  a  Sunday  School. 

O  GOD,  who  art  the  strength  of  all  who  put  their 
trust  in  thee,  and  the  helper  of  all  u-no  flee  to  thee 
for  succor,  mercifully  accept  our  prayers ;  and  be- 
cause, through  the  weakness  of  our  mortal  nature, 
we  can  do  no  good  thing  without  thee,  grant  us  the 
help  of  thy  grace,  that  in  keeping  thy  command- 
ments we  may  please  thee,  both  in  will  and  deed* 
Keep  us  under  the  protection  of  thy  good  provi- 
dence, and  make  us  to  have  a  perpetual  fear  and 
love  of  thy  name.  Increase  and  multiply  upon  us 
thy  mercy.  Direct  us  in  what  we  do  by  the  sure 
guidance  of  thy  Holy  Spirit :  may  all  things  in  this 
school  be  done  decently,  in  order,  and  to  edifying. 
Grant  to  us,  O  Lord,  the  spirit  to  think  and  to  do 
always  such  things  as  are  right;  to  love  the  ways 
of  thy  laws,  and  the  works  of  thy  commandments, 
and  to  be  ready  to  every  good  work.  Grant  unto 
us  such  a  measure  of  thy  grace,  that  we,  running 
the  way  of  thy  commandments,  may  obtain  thy 
gracious  promises,  and  be  made  partakers  of  thy 
heavenly  treasure.  Pour  down  upon  us  the  abun- 
dance of  thy  mercy;  forgiving  us  those  things, 
wherein  we  have  displeased  thee,  and  giving  us 
those  good  things,  which  we  are  not  worthy  to  ask, 


24  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Another  Prayer  for  the  use  of  a  Sunday  School. 

but  through   the  merits   and   mediation  of  Jesus 
Christ,  thy  Son  our  Lord. 

Thou  hast  taught  us,  O  heavenly  Father,  by  thy 
holy  apostle,  that  all  our  teaching,  all  our  faith,  and 
all  our  doings,  without  charity  are  nothing  worth : 
give  us,  we  beseech  thee,  that  spirit  which  was  in 
our  Savior  Christ,  that  we  may  follow  after  that 
charity  which  is  the  bond  of  peace,  and  love  one 
another,  as  thou  hast  given  us  commandment.  May 
we  love  others  as  we  love  ourselves,  and  do  unto 
all  men  as  we  would  have  them  do  unto  us.  And 
wilt  thou  hear  our  intercessions,  O  God,  for  the 
whole  family  of  mankind'?  Let  the  light  of  thy 
gospel  shine  upon  all  the  nations  of  the  earth,  and 
grant  that  they  who  have  received  it  may  live  -as 
becomes  it.  Keep  thy  church  and  household  in  thy 
true  religion.  Grant  that  all  Christians  may  be  so 
joined  together,  in  unity  of  spirit,  and  in  the  bond 
of  peace,  that  they  may  be  a  holy  temple  accepta- 
ble unto  thee.  And  especially,  O  Lord,  to  the  con- 
gregation of  thy  people,  with  whom  we  are  accus- 
tomed to  assemble,  give  the  abundance  of  thy  grace; 
that  with  one  heart  they  may  desire  the  prosperity 
of  thy  holy  apostolic  church,  and  with  one  mouth 
may  profess  the  faith  once  delivered  to  the  saints. 
Give  grace,  O  heavenly  Father,  to  all  the  ministers 
of  thy  gospel,  of  every  grade,  that  they  may,  both 
by  their  life  and  doctrine,  set  forth  thy  true  and 
lively  word,  and  rightly  and  duly  administer  the 
holy  ordinances  of  Christ's  religion. 

And  to  thee,  the  Father  of  mercies,  we  would  add 
our  humble  and  hearty  thanks  for  thy  unnumbered 
mercies  bestowed  upon  thy  sinful  creatures,  who 
are  unworthy  of  the  least  of  thy  favors.  Chiefly 
we  adore  thy  goodness  in  the  gift  of  thy  Son  to  be 
our  Savior,  and  that  thou  hast  called  us  to  a  know- 
ledge of  thy  grace  and  faith  in  him.  We  bless  thee 
for  all  the  means  and  opportunities  of  religious  im 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  25 

Collects  suitable  for  opening  a  Sunday  School. 

provement  which  we  enjoy.  Though  we  are  un- 
worthy, through  our  manifold  sins,  to  offer  thee  any 
sacrifice  of  praise  or  prayer ;  trusting  in  thy  pro- 
mise to  give  to  those  who  ask  in  the  name  of  Jesus 
Christ,  we  beseech  thee  to  accept  our  adorations 
and  praise.  Behold  with  thy  favor  and  blessing 
the  occasion  of  our  present  meeting  before  thee. 
Guide  and  prosper  our  feeble  efforts  to  teach  and  to 
learn  the  ways  of  righteousness  and  truth.  To 
those  who  teach,  give  wisdom  and  patience  and  the 
spirit  of  love.  Open  the*  minds  of  those  who  are 
taught,  that  they  may  receive  instruction,  and  know 
to  refuse  the  evil  and  choose  the  good,  and,  like  the 
child  Jesus,  grow  in  wisdom,  as  they  increase  in 
years,  and  in  favor  with  God  and  man.  Give  thy 
blessing  to  all  those  who  have  the  care  of  educating 
youth :  may  they  so  train  them  up  in  the  way  that 
they  should  go,  that  afterward  they  may  not  depart 
from  it.  Direct  us,  O  Lord,  in  all  we  do,  with  thy 
most  gracious  favor,  and  prosper  us  with  thy  con- 
tinued help.  Dispose  our  ways  towards  the  attain- 
ment of  everlasting  salvation,  that  among  all  the 
changes  and  perils  of  this  mortal  life,  we  may  ever 
be  defended  by  thy  most  gracious  and  ready  help, 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed  Lord  and  Savior. 
Amen. 


Collects  suitable  for  opening  a  Sunday  School. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everliving  God,  who  hatest  nothing 
that  thou  hast  made,  and  dost  forgive  the  sins  of  all 
those  who  are  penitent,  create  and  make  in  us  new 
and  contrite  hearts,  that  we,  truly  lamenting  our 
sins  and  acknowledging  our  unworthiness,  may  ob- 
tain of  thee,  the  God  of  all  mercy,  perfect  remission 
3 


26  •  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  closing  a  Sunday  School. 

and  forgiveness,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

O  almighty  God,  who  alone  canst  order  the 
unruly  wills  and  affections  of  men,  grant  unto  us 
and  to  all  thy  people,  that  we  may  love  the  things 
which  thou  commandest,  and  desire  that  which 
thou  dost  promise,  that  so,  among  the  sundry  and 
manifold  changes  of  the  world,  our  hearts  may 
surely  there  be  fixed,  where  true  joys  are  to  be 
found,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

Direct  us,  O  Lord,  in  all  we  do,  with  thy  most 
gracious  favor,  and  further  us  with  thy  continual 
help,  that  in  all  our  works,  begun,  continued,  and 
ended  in  thee,  we  may  glorify  thy  holy  name,  and 
finally,  by  thy  mercy,  obtain  everlasting  life, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  in  whose  name  and 
words  we  humbly  pray : — 

Our  Father,  who  art,  &c. 


For  closing  the  School. 

BLESSED  Lord,  who  hast  caused  all  holy  Scrip- 
tures to  be  written  for  our  learning,  grant  that  we 
may  in  such  wise  hear  them,  and  read,  mark,  learn, 
and  inwardly  digest  them,  that  by  patience  and 
comfort  of  thy  holy  word,  we  may  embrace  and 
ever  hold  fast  the  blessed  hopes  of  everlasting  life, 
which  thou  hast  given  us  in  our  Lord  and  Savior, 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

Grant,  we  beseech  thee,  almighty  God,  that 
what  has  now  been  read,  and  heard,  and  taught 


GRIS WOLD'S    PRAYERS.  27 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  the  Closing  of  a  Sunday  School. 

from  thy  holy  word,  and  according  to  thy  will,  may, 
through  thy  grace,  be  so  grafted  inwardly  in  our 
hearts,  that  it  may  bring  forth  in  us  the  fruit  of 
good  living,  to  the  honor  and  praise  of  thy  name, 
through  Christ,  our  blessed  Redeemer.  Amen. 

The  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
of  God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
with  us  all  evermore.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  the  Closing  of  a  Sunday  School. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  through  whose 
merciful  goodness  we  are  again  permitted  to  enjoy 
the  comforts  and  the  privileges  of  thy  holy  day  of 
rest,  give  us  hearts  to  be  thankful  for  these  and  for 
all  thy  favors.  Grant  that  the  truths  of  thy  holy 
word  may  be  grafted  inwardly  in  our  hearts,  and 
bring  forth  in  us  the  fruit  of  pure  and  undented  re- 
ligion. Accept  the  prayers  which  have  been  offered 
before  these,  and  pardon  us  wherein  they  have  been 
defective.  May  thy  blessing  be  upon  all  the  mem- 
bers of  this  school,  and  upon  all  its  exercises.  May 
the  doctrines  of  the  gospel  be  deeply  impressed  up- 
on our  minds,  and  be  made  the  rule  of  our  conduct. 
Work  in  us  that  repentance  for  our  sins  past  which 
is  not  to  be  repented  of,  and  that  faith  in  the  Lord 
Jesus  Christ  which  renews  the  heart,  worketh  by 
love,  and  overcometh  the  world.  Help  us  to  love 
thee  with  all  our  heart,  and  with  all  our  soul,  and 
with  all  our  mind,  and  to  love  our  neighbor  as  we 
love  ourselves.  Grant  that  what  is  taught  us  on  the 
Lord's  day  may  be  so  blessed  to  the  improvement 
of  our  hearts,  as  to  influence  our  life  and  practice 
through  the  week  and  while  we  live.  Strengthen 
us  by  thy  Spirit,  and  guide  us  in  all  things  by  thy 


28  GRIS WOLD'S  PRATERS. 

Directions  for  a  Larger  Form  of  Sunday  School  Devotions. 

heavenly  wisdom,  that  we  may  do  our  duty  in  the 
state  of  life  to  which  it  shall  please  thee  to  call  us. 
Denying  ungodliness  and  worldly  lusts,  may  we 
live  soberly,  righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present 
world ;  and  when  we  shall  have  served  thee  in  our 
generation,  may  we  be  admitted  into  those  man- 
sions of  peace  and  rest  which  thou  hast  prepared 
for  those  who  love  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ ;  in  whose 
name  we  offer  up  these  our  imperfect  prayers. 
And  to  the  King  eternal,  immortal,  invisible,  the 
only  wise  God,  be  honor  and  glory  forever  and 
ever.  Amen. 


Directions  for  a  Larger  Form  of  Sunday  School  Devotions. 

The  person  who  conducts  the  worship  may  first  address  the  school  in 
the  following,  or  other  words  suitable  to  COM  their  attention  to  the  sub- 
ject of  their  dependence  upon  God,  and  the  importance  of  asking  in 
prayer  for  his  aid  and  benediction. 

BELOVED  brethren  and  youthful  friends,  through 
the  Lord's  merciful  goodness  we  are  here  assem- 
bled, on  his  holy  day,  and  in  his  presence,  to  give 
and  to  receive  instruction  and  knowledge,  especially 
instruction  in  God's  word,  and  the  knowledge  of 
our  salvation  in  Jesus  Christ.  But  we  are  not  able 
to  know  the  Holy  Scriptures,  except  God  shall  open 
our  hearts  that  we  may  truly  understand  them ;  nor 
can  we  keep  his  commandments,  nor  do  any  good 
thing,  without  his  grace  assisting.  We  ought, 
therefore,  daily  and  at  all  times,  to  ask  in  prayer 
for  the  direction  and  aid  of  his  Holy  Spirit,  and 
humbly  and  earnestly  to  call  upon  him  for  what  we 
need.  Let  us  now,  with  humble  minds  and  sincere 
devotion,  unite  in  beseeching  him  to  behold  us  with 
favor  on  the  present  occasion,  to  bestow  his  blessing 
upon  this  school,  and  that  he  will  direct  and  aid  us 
in  all  our  endeavors  to  teach  and  know  and  do  his 
will. 


GRISWOLD'S  PLAYERS.  29 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  and  for  any  School. 

Then  may  be  used  any  of  the  preceding  Prayers,  or  a  Selection  of 
Collects  from  the  Prayer  Book.  Afterwards  a  suitable  Psalm,  or  portion 
of  the  Psalter,  may  be  named  and  used;  he  who  conducts  the  service 
reading-  one  verse,  and  the  rest  who  are  present  reading-  alternately ;  and 
after  the  Psalm,  the  Christian  Doxology.  The  service  may  end  here ; 
or  there  may  be  read  for  a  lesson  the  portion  of  the  Scriptures  at  that 
time  to  be  explained:  and  after  the  lesson,  what  follows  :— 

Blessed  Lord,  who  hast  caused  all  Holy  Scrip- 
tures to  be  written  for  our  learning,  grant  that  we 
may  in  such  wise  hear  them ;  read,  mark,  learn, 
and  inwardly  digest  them ;  that,  by  patience  and 
comfort  of  thy  holy  word,  we  may  embrace  and 
ever  hold  fast  the  blessed  hope  of  everlasting  life, 
which  thou  hast  given  us  in  our  Lord  and  Savior, 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

Then  may  be  named  and  sung  a  Hymn  or  Psalm  in  metre ;  and  then  : 

The  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
of  God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
with  us  all,  evermore.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  and  for  any  School. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  unto  whom  all 
hearts  are  open,  all  desires  known,  and  from  whom 
no  secrets  are  hid,  we  beseech  thee  to  pardon  our 
sins,  to  sanctify  our  hearts,  and  mercifully  to  assist 
us  in  these  our  supplications  and  prayers.  We 
ador(e  thee  as  a  holy  and  merciful  God,  whose  right- 
eous providence  orders  all  things  in  heaven,  and  on 
earth ;  and  from  whom  all  holy  desires,  all  good 
counsels,  and  all  just  works  do  proceed.  Without 
thee  nothing  is  strong,  nothing  is  holy,  nothing 
good.  Except  the  Lord  build  the  house,  they  labor 
in  vain  who  build  it;  except  the  Lord  keep  the 
city,  the  watchman  waketh  in  vain.  We  beseech 
thee  to  direct  and  bless  us  in  what  we  do.  Give 
3* 


30  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  and  for  any  School. 

us  wisdom  to  choose,  and  grace  to  perform,  what- 
ever is  according  to  thy  holy  will.  Preserve  us 
from  every  sin,  protect  us  in  every  danger,  and 
grant  that  all  our  doings,  being  ordered  by  thy  go- 
vernance, may  be  righteous  in  thy  sight.  Dispose 
all  our  ways  towards  the  attainment  of  immortal 
life ;  that,  amidst  the  manifold  perils  of  our  earthly 
pilgrimage,  our  conversation  may  be  in  heaven. 
Make  us  sensible,  O  blessed  Lord,  of  thy  great 
goodness,  and  thankful  for  all  thy  mercies.  We 
render  thee  humble  and  hearty  thanks  for  blessings 
daily  bestowed  upon  us,  and  upon  all  men,  tempo- 
ral and  spiritual.  We  bless  thee  especially  for  the 
means  of  knowledge  and  mutual  improvement  so 
bountifully  bestowed  on  this  our  favored  country. 
And  we  humbly  ask  for  thy  blessing  upon  all  our 
schools  and  seminaries  of  learning.  Give  wisdom 
and  patience  to  those  who  teach,  and  a  meek  and 
teachable  disposition  to  all  who  learn.  Defend 
them  from  pride  and  a  vain  confidence  in  them- 
selves, and  incline  their  hearts  to  such  things  as 
are  truly  profitable.  May  we  never  forget  that  the 
fear  of  the  Lord  is  the  beginning  of  wisdom,  and 
that  the  most  important  knowledge  is,  to  know  thee 
the  only  true  God,  and  ourselves  as  unworthy  sin- 
ners, and  Jesus  Christ  as  the  only  Savior.  Give 
thy  blessing,  O  Lord,  to  this  school  and  to  all  who 
are  engaged  in  its  instruction  and  concerned  in  its 
support.  May  the  children  and  youth  who  are 
here  present  be  partakers  of  thy  heavenly  benedic- 
tion; may  they  be  members  of  Christ  and  heirs 
through  hope  of  thy  everlasting  kingdom.  Do 
thou,  their  Father  who  art  in  heaven,  take  them 
under  thy  holy  care  and  keeping.  Incline  their 
hearts  and  open  their  minds  to  the  light  of  truth 
arid  the  attainment  of  useful  science.  Imprint  up- 
oh  their  hearts  an  early  and  thankful  sense  of  thy 
goodness  in  giving  them  abundant  means  of  intel- 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  31 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  any  School. 

lectual  improvement.  Preserve  them  from  the 
snares  of  sin  and  all  the  perils  of  youth,  and  con- 
duct them  safely  through  the  journey  of  life.  Help 
them  continually  to  mortify  their  evil  and  corrupt 
affections,  and  daily  to  proceed  in  all  virtue  and 
godliness  of  living.  Make  them  happy  and  useful 
as  members  of  society,  and  an  honor  and  comfort 
to  their  relatives  and  friends,  and  prepare  them  for 
thy  heavenly  kingdom.  Guide  and  bless  the  care 
and  patient  labor  of  those  who  instruct  them  in 
what  is  good  and  useful ;  remember  them  for  good, 
and  reward  their  labor  of  love.  To  all  who  are 
engaged  in  the  important  business  of  instructing 
youth,  give  wisdom  and  grace,  both  by  precept  and 
example,  to  teach  such  things  as  will  best  promote  the 
good  of  their  pupils  in  this  world,  and  in  the  world 
to  come.  Help  them  to  rear  the  tender  thought 
to  ripened  wisdom,  and  to  conduct  the  youthful 
mind,  in  all  its  growth,  to  manly  virtue.  To  all 
who  are  present,  give  thy  heavenly  grace ;  that, 
denying  ungodliness  and  worldly  lusts,  we  may 
live  soberly,  righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present 
life  ;  and  finally  be  prepared  to  dwell  with  thee  in 
thine  everlasting  kingdom.  For  thine  is  the  king- 
dom and  the  power,  and  thine  be  the  glory  forever 
and  ever.  These  things  we  ask,  O  heavenly  Fa- 
ther, through  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed  Lord  and 
Savior.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  any  School. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  the  Author  of  our 
being,  and  the  Giver  of  all  good,  we  beseech  thee 
in  mercy  to  pardon  our  sins,  to  hear  our  prayers, 
and  to  give  us  thy  blessing.  Without  thee  nothing 


32  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  any  School. 

is  strong,  nothing  is  holy,  nothing  good.  Except 
the  Lord  build  the  house  they  labor  in  vain  who 
build.  We  humbly  ask  for  thy  guidance  and  pro- 
tection, beseeching  thee  to  direct  us  in  all  we  design 
or  do  with  thy  most  gracious  favor,  and  to  prospei 
us  with  thy  continual  help.  Look  down  with  thy 
favor  and  blessing  upon  this  school  now  present  be- 
fore thee,  and  upon  all  who  convene  in  this  place 
for  the  acquirement  of  knowledge.  Preserve  them 
from  evil  and  error,  and  from  all  things  which 
would  be  hurtful  to  them,  in  body  or  mind.  In- 
cline their  hearts  to  truth  and  righteousness,  and 
help  them,  we  beseech  thee,  to  receive  such  instruc- 
tion as  shall  fit  them  to  be  useful  members  of  so- 
ciety in  this  world  and  heirs  of  thy  heavenly  king- 
dom. Inspire  them  with  that  fear  of  the  Lord, 
which  is  the  beginning  of  true  knowledge.  May 
they  be  duly  respectful  to  their  parents,  teachers, 
and  others  in  authority  over  them,  inclining  their 
ears  to  wisdom,  and  applying  their  hearts  to  under- 
standing. Wisdom  is  the  principal  thing ;  help  us, 
O  Lord,  to  get  wisdom,  and  to  walk  in  thy  com- 
mandments. We  are  blind,  and  weak,  and  sinful, 
and  need,  O  heavenly  Father,  thy  mercy  and  thy 
care.  By  thy  Spirit  and  thy  providence,  be  thou, 
we  beseech  thee,  our  Teacher  and  Guide.  May  we 
strive  for  knowledge,  and  lift  up  our  voice  for  un- 
derstanding. Give  thy  blessing  to  parents  and 
masters,  and  to  all  who  have  the  care  and  the  tui- 
tion of  the  rising  generation.  Endue  them  with 
wisdom  and  patience,  with  kindness  and  love.  May 
the  children  under  their  care  be  so  trained  up  in  the 
way  that  they  should  go,  that  when  they  are  old 
they  will  not  depart  from  it.  Behold  with  thy 
blessing  and  favor  all  our  schools  and  seminaries 
of  learning.  May  they  be  instrumental  in  promot- 
ing righteousness  and  truth ;  and  may  knowledge 
and  happiness,  and  pure  and  undefiled  religion,  be 


ORIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  33 

For  the  Closing  of  any  School. 

spread  and  increased  throughout  our  land.  These 
things,  and  whatever  else  thou  shalt  see  to  be  good 
for  us,  for  this  school,  and  for  all  mankind,  we 
humbly  ask  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord 
and  Savior.  Amen. 

And  may  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  be 
with  us  now  and  evermore.     Amen. 


For  the  Closing  of  any  School. 

O  LORD,  our  heavenly  Father,  in  whom  we  live 
and  move  and  have  our  being,  we  humbly  desire 
to  render  thee  our  thanks  and  praise  for  all  thy 
daily  mercies ;  and  especially  for  the  favors  and 
blessings  which  have  been  vouchsafed  to  us  this 
present  day.  We  thank  thee,  O  God,  for  the 
means  and  opportunities  of  acquiring  useful  know- 
ledge, which  are  bountifully  bestowed  upon  us,  and 
upon  the  people  of  this  our  country,  beseeching 
thee  to  give  us  grace  rightly  to  use  them,  to  the 
promotion  of  thy  honor,  and  of  our  own  best  good. 
Grant  us  a  right  judgment  in  all  things,  and  guide 
our  steps  in  the  paths  of  heavenly  wisdom.  May 
we  love  the  things  which  thou  commandest,  and 
desire  those  which  thou  dost  promise  to  them 
who  love  and  serve  thee.  Take  us,  we  beseech 
thee,  and  all  that  appertains  to  us,  under  thy  holy 
care  and  keeping.  Preserve  us  from  sin  and  wick- 
edness, and  'from  every  danger  of  soul  and  body. 
Help  us  in  the  performance  of  every  duty,  and 
every  work  which  our  hand  findeth  to  do.  Give 
us  grace  to  be  humble  and  meek ;  to  be  respectful  to 
all  to  whom  respect  is  due,  and  just  and  charitable 
to  all  our  fellow-men.  May  we  be  kindly  affec- 
tioned  one  to  another  with  brotherly  love ;  in  honor 
preferring  one  another;  and  as  much  as  lieth  in 

C 


34  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

To  be  used  on  any  occasions  of  Catechising  Children. 

us,  may  we  live  peaceably  with  all  men.  In  all 
the  business  of  our  several  occupations,  direct  us, 
O  Lord,  and  give  us  thy  blessing.  Preserve  us 
from  an  evil  heart  of  unbelief,  in  departing  from 
thee,  the  living  God.  May  we  set  the  Lord  always 
before  us ;  be  thou  on  our  right  hand,  that  we  may 
not  be  moved  from  our  steadfastness,  nor  neglect 
any  duty  which  we  owe  to  ourselves,  to  our  neigh- 
bors, or  to  thee.  Vouchsafe,  O  Lord,  we  beseech 
thee,  to  sanctify  and  govern  both  our  hearts  and 
bodies,  in  the  ways  of  thy  laws,  and  in  the  works 
of  thy  commandments,  that  through  thy  most 
mighty  protection,  both  here  and  ever,  we  may  be 
preserved,  in  body  and  soul,  through  our  Lord  and 
Savior,  Jesus  Christ,  in  whose  name  and  words  we 
offer  and  conclude  our  humble  supplications : — 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven,  hallowed  be  thy 
name.  Thy  kingdom  come :  thy  will  be  done  on 
earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread ;  and  forgive  us  our  trespasses,  as  we 
forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us.  And  lead 
us  not  into  temptation;  but  deliver  us  from  evil. 
For  thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the 
glory,  forever  and  ever.  Amen. 


The  two  following  may  be  used  on  any  occasions  of  Catechising  Chil- 
dren, or  in  Sunday  Schools. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  the  fountain  of  all  wisdom,  the 
author  of  all  good  and  the  giver  of  all  grace,  with- 
out whose  blessing  and  aid  our  designs  and  labors 
are  fruitless  and  vain,  look  down,  we  beseech  thee, 
with  thy  favor  and  heavenly  benediction,  upon 
these  children  and  youth  who  are  here  before  thee, 
desirous  to  learn  the  rudiments  of  religion — the 
first  principles  of  the  doctrine  of  Christ.  We  be- 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  35 

To  be  used  on  any  occasions  of  Catechising  Children. 

seech  thee,  O  God,  in  thy  merciful  goodness,  to 
open  their  tender  minds,  that  they  may  know  thy 
truth,  and  understand  and  receive  the  doctrines  of 
eternal  life  in  Jesus  Christ.  Help  them  to  receive 
with  meekness  the  ingrafted  word,  which  is  able 
to  save  their  souls ;  and  to  become  in  heart  and 
life  members  of  Christ,  children  of  God,  and  in- 
heritors of  the  kingdom  of  heaven.  Grant  them 
repentance,  whereby  they  may  forsake  sin ;  and 
faith,  whereby  they  may  steadfastly  believe  the 
promises  of  God,  made  to  those  who  are  baptized 
into  Jesus  Christ.  Direct,  sanctify,  and  govern 
their  hearts  and  their  lives  in  the  ways  of  thy  laws, 
and  in  the  works  of  thy  commandments;  that, 
through  thy  most  mighty  protection,  they  may  ever 
be  preserved  from  all  danger,  and  that  they  may 
live  and  grow  in  the  nurture  and  admonition  of  the 
Lord.  Direct  and  bless  the  care  and  the  instruc- 
tion of  their  parents,  teachers,  and  others  who  have, 
and  may  have,  the  oversight  of  their  morals  and 
their  education,  to  their  temporal  and  eternal  good. 
May  they  all  be  under  thy  holy  care  and  keeping: 
may  they  live  to  thy  glory  here  on  the  earth,  and 
finally,  by  thy  mercy,  obtain  everlasting  life, 
through  the  merits  of  our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus 
Christ.  Amen. 

ALMIGHTY  and  immortal  God,  the  aid  of  all  who 
need,  the  helper  of  all  who  flee  to  thee  for  succor, 
the  life  of  those  who  believe,  and  the  resurrection 
of  the  dead,  we  humbly  call  upon  thee  in  behalf  of 
these  children  and  youth  now  present  before  thee. 
Behold  them  with  thy  favor  and  blessing.  Open 
their  understandings,  that  they  may  receive  the  in- 
structions of  thy  word,  and  be  established  in  the 
first  principles  of  thy  true  religion,  and  that,  like 
young  Timothy,  they  may  from  childhood  know 
the  Holy  Scriptures,  which  are  able  to  make  them 


36  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

To  be  used  in  Meetings  of  Bible  Classes. 

wise  unto  salvation,  through  the  faith  which  is  in 
Christ  Jesus.  Graft  in  their  hearts  the  love  of  thy 
name ;  implant  in  their  minds  true  religion ;  nou- 
rish them  with  the  bread  of  life ;  help  them  to  re- 
nounce all  sinful  vanities  and  all  the  lusts  and  pride 
of  life,  to  believe  all  the  articles  of  the  Christian 
faith,  to  keep  thy  holy  will  and  commandments, 
and  to  walk  in  the  ways  of  thy  truth  all  the  days 
of  their  life.  Help  them  to  love  thee,  their  hea- 
venly Parent,  with  all  their  heart  and  soul  and  mind, 
and  to  do  unto  all  men  as  they  would  that  others 
should  do  unto  them ;  to  submit  themselves  to  every 
ordinance  of  man  for  the  Lord's  sake,  and  to  live 
soberly,  righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present 
world.  Receive,  O  Lord,  and  bless  them  as  thy 
children;  as  thou  hast  promised  by  our  Savior 
Christ,  give  now  unto  us  who  ask ;  let  us  who  seek, 
find ;  open  unto  us  who  knock,  that  these  children 
may  enjoy  the  benediction  of  thy  heavenly  grace. 
Let  thy  Holy  Spirit  lead  and  guide  them  through 
this  sinful  world  in  holiness  and  righteousness  all 
the  days  of  their  life ;  may  they  be  instruments  of 
thy  glory,  by  serving  thee  in  their  generation ;  so 
that  finally,  by  thy  mercy,  they  may  attain  to  ever- 
lasting life,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed  Lord 
and  Savior.  Amen. 


In  Meetings  of  Bible  Classes  may  be  used  the  following  Prayer,  or  any 
other  in  this  book  that  may  be  thought  convenient. 

O  ETERNAL  God,  whose  wise  and  unfailing  provi- 
dence orders  all  things  in  heaven  and  on  earth ; 
who  hast  compassion  on  the  sinful  sons  of  men,  and 
hast  graciously  promised  to  hear  the  prayers  of 
those  who  ask  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  behold 
us  in  mercy  and  hear  our  prayers.  We  desire  to 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  37 

To  be  used  in  Meetings  of  Bible  Classes. 

come  before  thee,  not  in  our  own  name  nor  trust- 
ing in"  our  own  righteousness,  but  in  the  name  of 
Jesus  Christ,  and  trusting  in  thy  mercy  through 
him.     May  thy  Holy  Spirit  direct  and  aid  our  de- 
votion ;  open  thou  our  lips,  that  we  may  show  forth 
thy  praise,  and  ask  for  such  things  as  shall  please 
thee.     Make  us  deeply  sensible  of  our  fallen,  sinful 
state ;  and  work  in  us  that  repentance  which  is  not 
to  be  repented  of ;  that  broken  and  contrite  heart 
which  thou  wilt  not  despise.     Make  us  thankful 
for  thy  goodness  in  preserving  our  lives  from  day 
to  day,  and  from  week  to  week;  and  in  giving  us 
frequent  opportunities  of  social  worship,  of  reading 
and  hearing  thy  holy  word,  and  talking  of  thy  mer- 
cies revealed  in  Jesus  Christ.     Thy  law  is  undefil- 
ed,  converting  the  soul ;  thy  testimony  giveth  wis- 
dom unto  the  simple.     May  thy  righteous  statutes 
rejoice  our  heart,  and  thy  pure  commandment  give 
light  unto  our  eyes.     O  teach  us  thy  statutes,  and 
help  us  to  talk  of  thy  commandments,  and  to  walk 
in  thy  ways.     We  thank  thee,  O  God,  that  thou 
hast  caused  all  Holy  Scriptures  to  be  written  for 
our  learning :  may  we  in  such  wise  read  and  hear 
and  understand  and  receive  them,  that  we  may  em- 
brace and  ever  hold  fast  the  blessed  hopes  of  im- 
mortal  life.      While   we   search    those   Scriptures 
which  are  the  word  of  life,   may  we  never  forget 
that  they  testify  of  Christ,     May  we  give  such  heed 
to  the  sure  word  of  prophecy  and  its  fulfilment  in 
him,  that  we  may  say,  in  the  fulness  of  our  hearts, 
Lo  !  this  is  our  God,  we  have  waited  for  him,  and 
he  will  save  us :  this  is  the  Lord ;  we  have  waited 
for  him ;  we  will  be  glad  and  rejoice  in  his  salva- 
tion.    Accept,  O  Lord,  of  our  humble  and  hearty 
thanks  for  the  unspeakable  gift  of  a  divine  Savior; 
that  while  we  were  yet  sinners  Christ  died  for  us : 
and  that  he  has  put  away  sin,  by  the  sacrifice  of 
himself.     We  thank  thee  for  all  the  means  of  grace 
4 


38  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

To  be  used  in  Meetings  of  Bible  Classes. 

and  for  the  hope  of  glory.  We  bless  thee  for  the 
weekly  return  of  thy  holy  day  of  rest.  We  adore 
thy  goodness  in  giving  us  frequent  opportunities  of 
communing  as  Christian  brethren  and  friends,  of 
meeting  in  thy  presence,  of  uniting  in  prayer,  of 
searching  the  Scriptures,  of  talking  of  thy  goodness 
and  declaring  the  wonders  that  thou  dost  for  the 
children  of  men. 

Thou  art  still  calling  us  to  the  knowledge  of  thy 
grace  and  faith  in  thee.  Increase  this  knowledge, 
and  confirm  this  faith  in  us  evermore ;  help  us  to 
receive  with  meekness  the  ingrafted  word,  which  is 
able  to  save  our  souls,  and  to  live  in  all  things  ac- 
cording to  the  precepts  of  thy  holy  word.  Wilt 
thou,  O  Lord,  reveal  thyself  to  us  as  thou  dost  not 
to  the  world?  Give  us  that  lively  faith  in  Jesus 
Christ  which  renews  the  heart  and  overcomes  the 
world.  May  thy  word  be  our  study  and  our  de- 
light ;  and  may  thy  Holy  Spirit  dwell  within  us, 
and  so  sanctify  our  thoughts  and  govern  our  wills, 
that  we  may  present  ourselves  a  living  sacrifice, 
holy  and  acceptable,  unto  thee,  which  is  our  rea- 
sonable service.  As  he  who  hath  called  us  is  holy, 
so  may  we  be  holy  in  all  manner  of  conversation. 
Give  us  grace,  O  Lord,  to  make  a  right  improve- 
ment from  these  opportunities  of  meeting  in  love, 
uniting  in  prayer,  and  searching  for  the  truths  of 
thy  holy  word.  Grant  that  what  has  been  or  shall 
be  now  read  or  heard,  may  be  duly  impressed 
upon  our  hearts,  and  fruitful  in  our  lives.  And 
may  we  show  our  thankfulness  for  these  favors 
not  only  with  our  lips  but  in  our  lives,  by  giv- 
ing up  ourselves  to  thy  service,  and  walking  be- 
fore thee  in  holiness  and  righteousness,  to  thy  honor 
and  praise,  and  to  our  comfort  and  salvation  in 
Jesus  Christ.  And  may  the  grace  of  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ  be  with  us  evermore.  Amen. 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  39 

To  be  used  in  Meetings  of  Bible  Societies,  or  Associations. 

• — ~ — — 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  Meetings  of  Bible  Societies,  or  Associa- 
tions.      |^  *i 

O  HOJ.Y,  just,  and  merciful  God,  unto  whom  all 
hearts  are  open  and  all  desires  known,  and  who  art 
always  more  ready  to  hear  than  we  to  pray,  grant 
unto  us,  thy  sinful  creatures  here  before  thee,  par- 
don and  peace.  Forgive  those  things  wherein  we 
have  transgressed  against  thee,  and  for  the  sake  of 
thy  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ,  give  us  those 
good  things  which  we  are  not  worthy  to  ask,  but  in 
his  prevailing  name.  Sanctify  our  affections,  and 
renew  a  right  spirit  within  us.  We  bless  thy  holy 
name,  that  thou  didst  so  love  the  world  as  to  send 
thine  only  begotten  Son,  not  to  condemn  the  world, 
but  that  all  who  believe  in  him  should  not  perish, 
but  have  everlasting  life  ;  and  that  thou  hast  made 
that  same  Jesus  who  was  crucified  both  Lord  and 
Christ.  We  bless  thee,  that  after  he  had  made  per- 
fect our  redemption,  by  dying  for  our  sins  and  rising 
for  our  justification,  he  gave  commission  to  his  apos- 
tles, and  commanded  them  to  preach  his  gospel  of 
salvation  to  every  creature.  We  bless  thee  that 
thou  gavest  the  word,  and  great  was  the  company 
of  the  preachers;  and  that  thou  art  still  calling 
many  to  the  like  ministration  and  labor  of  love. 
Make  us  duly  thankful  for  these  thy  inestimable 
benefits,  and  work  in  us  a  holy  and  earnest  desire 
to  promote  the  salvation  of  ourselves  and  others. 
Grant  that  thy  name  may  be  known  through  the 
earth,  thy  saving  health  among  all  nations. 

We  humbly  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to  guide  and 
to  bless  the  humble  and  pious  efforts  of  thy  people 
to  extend  the  knowledge  of  thy  word  and  the  doc- 
trines of  Christ  to  those  who  are  in  ignorance  and 
error.  Do  thou,  the  giver  of  all  grace,  increase 


40  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

To  be  used  in  Meetings  of  Bible  Societies,  or  Associations. 

their  zeal,  enlarge  their  means  and  strengthen  their 
hands.  May  all  Bible  Societies,  and  all  who  asso- 
ciate for  the  distribution  of  the  Holy  Scriptures  to 
those  who  are  destitute  of  thy  written  word,  with 
all  who  contribute  to  their  funds  and  aid  this  pious 
work,  be  under  .1hy  paternal  pare  ^n4.  holy  keeping. 
O  stablish  thoifthe  work 'of  their  nands^ufioTi  them, 
and  remember  them  for -good.  May  thy  word  have 
free  course  and^run  swiftly,  and  the  earth  be  full 
of  the  knowledge  of  the  Lord,  as  the  waters  cover 
the  sea.  Let  thy  blessing  and  the  aid  of  thy  Spirit 
be  with  those  missionaries  and  evangelists  who  la- 
bor in  word  and  doctrine  to  spread  thy  saving  truth 
in  foreign  lands.  Accept,  O  Lord,  of  our  interces- 
sions for  the  perishing  souls  among  whom  they 
labor ;  and  also  for  all  sorts  and  conditions  of  men, 
that  thou  wouldsr  be  >  pleased  to  make  thy  ways 
known  unto  them,  thy  saving  health  unto  all  na- 
tions. Hear  our  prayers,  we  humbly  beseech  thee, 
for  thy  holy  church  universal,  that  it  may  be  so 
guided  and  governed  by  thy  good  Spirit,  that  all 
who  profess  and  call  themselves  Christians  may  be 
led  into  the  way  of  truth,  and  hold  the  faith  hi 
unity  of  Spirit,  in  the  bond  of  peace,  and  in  right- 
eousness of  life.  Give  grace,  O  heavenly  Father, 
to  all  Bishops  and  other  ministers  of  Christ,  that 
they  may,  both  by  their  life  and  doctrine,  set  forth 
thy  true  and  lively  word,  and  rightly  and  duly  ad- 
minister the  ordinances  of  the  gospel.  Open  to 
them  an  effectual  door  of  usefulness,  and  bless  the 
word  spoken  by  their  mouth,  that  it  may  be  good 
to  the  use  of  edifying,  and  minister  grace  to  the 
hearers.  And  do  thou,  the  Lord  of  the  harvest, 
send  into  it  laborers,  able  ministers  of  thy  word, 
whose  meat  and  drink  it  shall  be  to  do  thy  work. 
Accept,  O  Lord,  of  these  our  supplications  and 
prayers,  and  dispose  all  our  ways  towards  the  at- 
tainment of  everlasting  salvation.  May  we  live  to 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  41 

.•*•  A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  a  Sinking  School. 

thy  glory  in  this  world,  and  in  the  world  to  come 
enjoy  life  everlasting.  These  things,  and  whatever 
else  thou  seest  to  be  good  an.d  fitting  for  us,  and  for 
any  and  all  for  whom  we  oHght  to  pray,  we  hum- 
bly ask  in  the  name  and  through  the  mediation  of 
Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed  Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  a  Singing  School,  or  a  Meeting  to  practise 
Psalmody. 

ADORABLE  and- everliving  God,  we  humbly  and 
devoutly  look  unto  thee,  as  the  Author  of  our  being, 
and  the  Giver  of  every  good  thing.  Let  thy  merci- 
ful ears  be  open  to  our  humble  supplications ;  and 
that  we  may  obtain  our  petitions,  help  us  to  ask  for 
such  things  as  shall  please  thee.  Thou  knowest,  0 
Lord,  our  hearts  and  our  wants,  and  the  imperfec- 
tion of  our  sincerest  prayers.  We  beseech  thee  to 
have  compassion  upon  our  infirmities,  and  to  give 
us  those  good  things,  which  we  are  not  worthy  to 
ask  but  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ. 

Give  us  hearts,  O  Lord,  to  be  thankful  for  thy 
manifold  goodness  to  us,  and  to  all  mankind.  Help 
us  to  come  before  thee  with  thanksgiving,  to  show 
ourselves  glad  in  thee  with  psalms,  and  heartily  to 
rejoice  in  the  strength  of  thy  salvation.  While  we 
worship  and  fall  down  and  kneel  before  thee,  may 
our  souls  magnify  thee,  O  Lord,  and  our  spirits  re- 
joice in  God  our  Savior.  May  we  praise  our  God 
while  we  have  our  being.  Direct,  O  Lord,  and 
bless  our  humble  efforts  to  set  forth  thy  praise  and 
to  honor  thy  holy  name.  Help  us  to  obtain  such 
knowledge  of  psalmody  and  the  art  of  sacred  music, 
that  the  songs  of  Zion  may  be  performed  devoutly, 
in  due  order  and  to  edifying ;  and  that  the  voice  of 
melody  may  be  heard  in  thy  sanctuary,  and  in  a 


42  GRISWOLD'S  PBAYERS. 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  a  Singing  School. 

manner  worthy  of  thy  exalted  perfections.  May 
we,  through  thy  grace,  sing  with  the  spirit  and 
with  the  understanding;  and  make  melody,  not 
only  with  our  voices,  but  in  our  hearts,  to  the  Lord. 
Fill  our  hearts  with  grateful  affections,  and  cause 
our  souls  to  unite  and  harmonize  in  love.  May  we 
feel  and  say  with  the  holy  Psalmist,  Praise  the 
Lord,  O  my  soul,  and  all  that  is  within  me,  praise 
his  holy  name ;  bless  the  Lord,  O  my  soul,  and  for- 
get not  all  his  benefits.  Defend  us,  O  Lord,  from 
all  vain  thoughts  and  worldly  affections.  May  we 
not  desire  to  honor  ourselves,  nor  seek  the  praise 
of  men ;  as  thine  is  the  kingdom  and  the  power, 
may  thine  forever  be  all  glory  and  praise.  Make 
our  offerings  acceptable  to  thyself.  Let  our  prayer 
be  set  forth  in  thy  sight  as  the  incense,  and  the  lift- 
ing up  of  our  hands  as  the  evening  sacrifice.  And 
give  us  grace  to  set  forth  thy  praise,  not  only  with 
our  lips,  but  in  our  lives,  walking  according  to  thy 
word,  and  doing  all  things  to  thy  glory.  And  may 
we  at  length,  through  thy  mercy  and  our  Savior's 
merits,  join  the  holy,  happy  choir  of  saints  above, 
who  sing  the  song  of  Moses  and  the  Lamb.  Blessing 
and  honor  and  glory  and  power  be  unto  him  that 
sitteth  upon  the  throne,  and  unto  the  Lamb,  forever 
and  ever.  Amen. 


PART  SECOND. 

PRAYERS  FOR  THE  USE  OF  FAMILIES 
AND  FOR  OTHER  OCCASIONS. 

INTRODUCTORY  REMARKS. 


THOUGH  we  have  in  print  a  great  variety  of 
Prayers  for  the  use  of  families,  and  many  of  them 
excellent;  that  this  publication  may  be  complete 
for  the  purpose  intended,  a  few  are  here  offered  to 
the  public.  In  compiling  them  the  author,  as  will 
be  seen,  has  made  much  use  of  the  Prayer  Book, 
and  some  use  of  the  prayers  published  by  others, 
preferring  those  which  are  most  common  and,  by 
our  people,  most  approved.  What  is  aimed  at  is  to 
prepare  some  forms  suitable  for  family  worship. 
They  who  have  better  forms,  or  who  can  pray  bet- 
ter without  any,  will  of  course  find  these  of  little 
or  no  use.  If  such  facilities  for  the  performance  of 
a  very  essential  duty  shall  be,  through  God's  bles- 
sing, the  means  of  introducing  prayer  into  some 
families  in  which  it  is  now  neglected,  we  shall  have 
much  cause  to  rejoice  and  bless  his  holy  name. 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven,  hallowed  be  thy 
name.  Thy  kingdom  come ;  thy  will  be  done  on 
earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses,  as  we 


44  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Morning  Prayer. 

forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us.  And  lead 
us  not  into  temptation;  but  deliver  us  from  evil. 
For  thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power  and  the 
glory,  forever  and  ever.  Amen. 

The  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
of  God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
with  us  all  evermore.  Amen. 


Morning  Prayer. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  in  whom  we  live 
and  move  and  have  our  being,  we,  thine  unworthy 
creatures,  offer  thee  our  humble  thanks  and  praise 
for  thy  manifold  goodness  to  us,  and  to  all  man- 
kind. We  thank  thee,  O  Lord,  especially  for  the 
preservation  of  the  past  night.  To  thy  watchful 
providence  we  owe  it,  and  to  thy  goodness  we 
thankfully  acknowledge  it,  that  we  are  brought 
[under  circumstances  of  comfort  and  peace]  to  see 
the  light  of  another  day.  Give  us  hearts  to  be  duly 
thankful  for  all  thy  mercies,  and  give  us  grace  to 
show  forth  thy  praise,  not  only  with  our  lips,  but 
in  our  lives,  by  a  holy  and  obedient  walking  before 
thee.  As  we  advance  in  age,  may  we  grow  in 
grace,  and  in  the  knowledge  of  our  Lord  and  Sa- 
vior, Jesus  Christ. 

Do  thou,  O  Lord,  who  knowest  the  frailty  of  our 
nature  and  the  temptations  which  assail  us,  support 
us  by  the  aid  of  thy  Holy  Spirit;  sanctify  our 
hearts,  restrain  us  from  sin,  and  excite  us  to  the 
performance  of  every  duty  to  ourselves,  to  our 
neighbor  and  to  thee.  Imprint  upon  our  hearts 
such  a  fear  of  thy  judgments,  and  such  a  thankful 
sense  of  thy  goodness  to  us,  that  we  may  live  so- 
berly, righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present  world. 


GUIS  WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  45 

Morning  Prayer. 

And  keep  in  our  minds  a  lively  remembrance  of 
that  great  day  of  the  Lord,  when  we  must  render 
an  account  of  our  conduct  in  this  world,  and  be 
judged  according  to  our  works. 

Grant  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  thy  grace 
and  protection  this  day,  and  whilst  we  live.  Keep 
us  temperate  in  all  things,  and  diligent  in  our  seve- 
ral callings.  Grant  us  patience  under  any  afflic- 
tions which  it  may  seem  good  to  thee  to  lay  upon 
us,  and  minds  always  contented  with  our  present 
condition,  and  resigned  to  thy  holy  will.  Give  us 
grace  to  be  just  and  upright  in  all  our  dealings ; 
quiet  and  peaceable ;  full  of  compassion,  and  ready 
to  do  good  unto  all  men,  according  to  our  abilities 
and  opportunities.  Direct  us  in  all  our  ways ;  pros- 
per us  in  the  lawful  business  of  our  several  stations. 
Defend  us  from  all  dangers  and  adversities ;  and  be 
graciously  pleased  to  take  us,  our  relatives  and 
friends,  and  all  that  is  near  and  dear  to  us,  under 
thy  merciful  care  arid  protection ;  that  we  may  be 
thy  people,  and  that  thou  mayest  be  our  God. 

[This  is  the  day  which  the  Lord  hath  made ; 
may  we  rejoice  and  be  glad  in  it.  Let  thy  Holy 
Spirit  go  with  us  to  the  place  of  thy  public  wor- 
ship ;  make  us  devout  and  humble,  and  attentive 
to  the  duties  of  thy  sanctuary.  May  we  worship 
thee,  our  God  and  Savior,  in  spirit  and  in  truth, 
and  receive  with  meekness  the  ingrafted  word, 
which  is  able  to  save  the  soul.] 

And  do  thou,  O  God,  the  fountain  of  all  wisdom, 
mercy  and  grace,  who  knowest  what  we  need  be- 
fore we  ask,  and  the  imperfection  of  our  sincerest 
prayers,  have  compassion  upon  our  infirmities ;  and 
whatever  good  things  thou  shalt  see  to  be  fitting  for 
us  and  for  thy  church,  and  for  all  mankind,  we 
humbly  ask,  through  the  merits  and  mediation  of 
thy  Son  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord  and  Savior. 


46  ORIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Evening  Prayer. 

And  may  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  be 
be  with  us  evermore.     Amen. 


Evening  Prayer. 

MOST  gracious  God,  who  hatest  nothing  that  thou 
hast  made,  and  hast  promised  forgiveness  to  those 
who  confess  and  forsake  their  sins,  we  come  before 
thee,  humbly  acknowledging  our  manifold  trans- 
gressions of  thy  holy  laws.  Behold  us,  O  Lord,  in 
mercy ;  pardon  our  sins ;  sanctify  our  hearts ;  and 
give  us  repentance  unto  life,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus 
Christ,  our  blessed  Lord  and  Savior. 

Without  thee,  O  God,  nothing  is  strong  and  no- 
thing is  holy ;  grant  us,  we  beseech  thee,  the  aid 
and  direction  of  thy  Holy  Spirit.  Reform  whatever 
is  amiss  in  the  state  and  disposition  of  our  minds. 
Preserve  us  from  envy  and  malice  and  all  uncha- 
ritableness.  May  we  never  suffer  the  sun  to  go 
down  upon  our  wrath ;  but  go  to  our  rest  in  peace, 
charity,  and  good- will,  with  a  conscience  void  of 
offence  towards  thee  and  towards  men;  and  be, 
through  thy  grace,  preserved  in  thy  faith  and  fear, 
unto  the  coming  of  our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus 
Christ. 

And  accept,  O  Lord,  our  intercessions  for  all 
mankind.  May  the  light  of  thy  gospel  shine  upon 
all  nations ;  and  they  who  have  received  it,  live  as 
becomes  it.  Be  gracious  unto  thy  church,  and 
grant  that  every  member  of  it,  in  his  vocation  and 
ministry,  may  serve  thee  faithfully.  Bless  those  in 
authority  over  us,  and  so  rule  their  hearts  and 
strengthen  their  hands,  that  they  may  not  bear  the 
sword  in  vain.  Send  down  thy  blessings,  temporal 
and  spiritual,  upon  our  relations,  friends  and  neigh- 
bors ;  may  they  who  are  dear  to  us  be  dear  to  thee, 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  47 

Evening  Prayer. 

and  under  thy  holy  care  and  keeping.  Reward 
those  who  have  done  us  good,  and  give  us  hearts 
to  be  duly  thankful.  If  any  have  done  or  wished 
us  evil,  give  to  them  pardon  and  better  minds,  and 
to  us  the  spirit  of  mercy  and  forgiveness.  Be  mer- 
ciful, O  Lord,  to  those  who  are  in  trouble,  sorrow, 
need,  sickness  or  any  other  adversity ;  and  do  thou, 
the  God  of  pity,  comfort  and  relieve  them,  accord- 
ing to  their  several  necessities,  for  his  sake  who 
went  about  doing  good,  thy  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus 
Christ. 

And  we  desire,  O  gracious  God,  to  render  thee 
our  humble  and  hearty  thanks  for  all  thy  mercies. 
We  bless  thee  for  the  gifts  of  life  and  reason ;  for 
our  health  and  friends ;  our  food  and  raiment ;  and 
for  all  the  enjoyments  of  this  present  life.  Above 
all,  we  adore  thy  mercy  in  sending  thy  only  Son 
into  this  world  to  redeem  us  from  sin  and  eternal 
death,  and  for  giving  us  the  knowledge  and  sense 
of  our  duty  towards  thee.  We  bless  thee,  O  God, 
for  thy  patience  with  us,  thy  sinful  creatures ;  for 
the  guidance,  aid,  and  comfort  of  thy  Holy  Spirit ; 
for  thy  continual  care  and  watchful  providence  over 
us  through  the  whole  course  of  our  lives ;  and  par- 
ticularly for  the  mercies  and  benefits  of  the  past 
day ;  beseeching  thee  to  continue  these  thy  blessings 
to  us,  and  to  give  us  grace  to  show  our  thankful- 
ness in  a  faithful  obedience  to  His  laws,  through 
whose  merits  and  intercession  we  received  them  all, 
thy  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ. 

Be  with  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  this  night ; 
take  us,  and  all  that  appertains  to  us,  under  thy 
gracious  protection.  Watch  over  us  while  we  rest; 
defend  us  from  all  evil ;  preserve  us  from  needless 
fear,  and  keep  us,  we  beseech  thee,  both  outwardly 
in  our  bodies  and  inwardly  in  our  souls.  Prepare 
us  for  the  labors  and  for  all  the  duties  of  another 
day.  May  we  never  forget  that  a  night  cometh, 


48  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Morning  Prayer. 

we  know  not  how  soon,  when  we  can  no  longer 
work.  When  our  Lord  shall  come,  whether  in  the 
second  watch  or  in  the  third  watch,  may  we  be 
found  faithful,  and  ready  to  enter  into  that  rest 
which  remains  for  the  people  of  God.  Grant  these 
things,  O  merciful  Lord,  through  the  merits  and  sat- 
isfaction of  thy  Son,  Christ  Jesus,  in  whose  name 
we  offer  up  these  our  imperfect  prayers.  Amen. 


Morning  Prayer. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  unto  whom  all 
hearts  are  open,  all  desires  known,  and  from  whom 
no  secrets  are  hid,  cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our  hearts 
by  the  inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  we, 
truly  lamenting  our  sins  and  acknowledging  our 
unworthiness,  may  obtain  of  thee,  the  God  of  all 
mercy,  perfect  remission  and  forgiveness,  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

O  Lord,  our  heavenly  Father,  almighty  and 
everlasting  God.  who  hast  safely  brought  us  to  the 
beginning  of  this  day,  defend  us,  we  beseech  thee, 
by  thy  mighty  power  :  grant  that  this  day  we  fall 
into  no  sin,  neither  run  into  any  kind  of  danger, 
either  of  soul  or  body ;  but  that  all  our  doings,  be- 
ing ordered  by  thy  governance,  may  be  righteous 
in  thy  sight.  Vouchsafe  to  direct,  sanctify  and  go- 
vern both  our  hearts  and  lives,  in  the  ways  of  thy 
laws,  and  in  the  works  of  thy  commandments; 
that,  through  thy  most  mighty  protection,  we  may 
be  preserved  in  body  and  soul,  through  our  Lord 
and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ. 

Accept,  O  Lord,  of  our  prayers  for  all  mankind, 
and  especially  for  those  who  are  of  the  household 
of  faith.  Do  thou,  by  whose  Spirit  thy  church  is 
governed  and  sanctified,  receive  our  supplications 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  49 

Morning  Prayer. 

for  all  its  members ;  that  in  their  several  states,  vo- 
cations and  ministry,  they  may  be  free  from  all  ad- 
versity, and  devoutly  given  to  serve  thee  faithfully 
in  good  works.  Inspire  them  with  truth,  unity,  and 
concord;  grant  that  all  they  who  do  confess  thy 
holy  name  may  agree  in  the  truth  of  thy  holy 
word,  and  live  in  unity  and  godly  love.  Send  down 
upon  the  ministers  of  thy  gospel,  and  upon  the  con- 
gregations committed  to  their  charge,  the  healthful 
spirit  of  thy  grace ;  and  that  they  may  truly  please 
thee,  pour  upon  them  the  continual  dew  of  thy 
blessing.  Grant  that  they  may,  both  by  their  life 
and  doctrine,  set  forth  thy  true  and  lively  word,  and 
rightly  and  duly  administer  the  ordinances  of  our 
blessed  Redeemer.  Grant  this,  O  Lord,  for  the 
honor  of  our  Advocate  and  Mediator,  Jesus  Christ. 
Almighty  God,  Father  of  all  mercies,  we,  thine 
unworthy  servants,  desire  also  to  render  unto  thee 
our  humble  and  hearty  thanks,  for  all  thy  goodness 
and  loving  kindness  to  us  and  to  all  mankind.  We 
bless  thee  for  our  creation  and  preservation ;  espe- 
cially that  we  were  kept  in  safety  through  the  past 
night,  that  we  are  brought  to  see  the  light  of  ano- 
ther day,  and  for  all  the  blessings  of  this  life :  but 
above  all,  for  thine  inestimable  love,  in  the  redemp- 
tion of  the  world  by  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  for  the 
means  of  grace,  and  for  the  hope  of  glory.  And, 
we  beseech  thee,  give  us  that  due  sense  of  all  thy 
mercies,  that  our  hearts  may  be  unfeignedly  thank- 
ful ;  and  that  we  may  show  forth  thy  praise,  not 
only  with  our  lips,  but  in  our  lives ;  by  giving  up 
ourselves  to  thy  service,  and  by  walking  before  thee 
in  holiness  and  righteousness  all  our  days.  Dis- 
pose our  ways  towards  the  attainment  of  everlast- 
ing salvation :  and  among  all  the  changes,  tempta- 
tions and  other  trials  of  this  mortal  life,  may  we 
ever  be  defended  by  thy  most  gracious  and  ready 
help,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  in  whose  name 
5  D 


50  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Evening  Prayer. 

and  words  we  humbly  pray : — Our  Father  who  art 
in  heaven,  hallowed  be  thy  name.  Thy  kingdom 
come ;  thy  will  be  done  on  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven. 
Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread.  And  forgive  us 
our  trespasses,  as  we  forgive  those  who  trespass 
against  us.  And  lead  us  not  into  temptation ;  but 
deliver  us  from  evil.  For  thine  is  the  kingdom, 
and  the  power  and  the  glory,  forever  and  ever. 
Amen. 


Evening  Prayer. 

O  MERCIFUL  God,  the  Giver  of  all  good,  who  hat- 
est  nothing  that  thou  hast  made ;  who  wouldst  not 
the  death  of  a  sinner,  but  rather  that  he  should 
turn  with  penitence  to  thee,  and  be  saved  through 
faith  in  Jesus  Christ;  mercifully  forgive  our  tres- 
passes; receive  and  comfort  us,  thy  unworthy 
creatures,  with  the  light  of  thy  reconciled  counte- 
nance. There  is  mercy,  O  Lord,  with  thee  that 
thou  mayest  be  feared.  To  thee  only  it  appertains 
to  blot  out  offences,  and  renew  the  soul  with  holy  af- 
fections. Spare  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  spare 
the  people  whom  thou  hast  redeemed.  Shouldst 
thou  be  extreme  to  mark  iniquities,  no  man  living 
could  be  justified.  For  the  glory  of  thy  name, 
turn  from  us  all  the  evils  which  we  too  justly  have 
deserved,  and  grant  us  perfect  remission  and  for- 
giveness, through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

O  God,  the  Protector  of  all  who  trust  in  thee, 
without  whom  nothing  is  strong,  nothing  holy,  no- 
thing good,  increase  and  multiply  upon  us  thy 
mercy ;  be  thou  in  all  things  our  ruler  and  guide : 
direct  us  in  what  we  do,  with  thy  most  gracious 
favor :  prosper  us  with  thy  continual  help ;  that  in  all 
our  works,  begun,  continued,  and  ended  in  thee,  we 


_  _      GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  51 

Evening  Prayer. 

may  advance  thy  glory.  Graft  in  our  hearts  the 
love  of  thy  name;  increase  in  us  true  religion; 
nourish  us  with  all  goodness,  and  of  thy  great 
mercy  keep  us  steadfast  in  thy  fear  and  service, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

O  God,  who  art  the  Creator  and  Preserver  of  all 
mankind,  we  humbly  beseech  thee  for  all  sorts  and 
conditions  of  men,  that  thou  wouldst  be  pleased  to 
make  thy  ways  known  unto  them,  thy  saving 
health  unto  all  nations.  More  especially  we  pray 
for  thy  holy  church  universal ;  that  it  may  be  so 
guided  and  governed  by  thy  good  Spirit,  that  all 
who  profess  and  call  themselves  Christians  may  be 
led  into  the  way  of  truth,  and  hold  the  faith,  once 
delivered  to  the  saints,  in  unity  of  spirit,  in  the 
bond  of  peace,  and  in  righteousness  of  life.  We 
ask  thy  blessing  upon  our  benefactors,  relatives, 
and  friends.  And  we  commend  to  thy  fatherly 
goodness  all  those  who  are  any  way  afflicted  in 
mind,  body,  or  estate ;  that  it  may  please  thee  to 
comfort  and  relieve  them  according  to  their  several 
necessities,  giving  them  patience  under  their  suf- 
ferings, and  a  happy  issue  out  of  their  afflictions. 
Accept,  O  Lord,  of  our  intercessions  for  all  who 
desire  our  prayers,  and  all  for  whom  we  ought  to 
pray.  Let  thy  fatherly  hand  be  over  them  for 
good ;  let  thy  Spirit  be  ever  with  them,  and  lead 
them  in  the  way  of  everlasting  life.  This  we  also 
ask  in  the  name  and  through  the  mediation  of  our 
Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ. 

O  Lord,  our  heavenly  Father,  by  whose  power 
and  goodness  we  have  been  preserved  through  the 
cares  and  perils  of  the  past  day,  watch  over  us,  we 
beseech  thee,  while  we  sleep :  under  the  shadow  of 
thy  wings  may  we  safely  rest  through  the  silent 
watches  of  the  night,  and  rise  refreshed,  prepared 
in  heart  and  strength  to  do  thy  will,  with  a  thank- 
ful sense  of  thy  goodness.  And  whilst  we  live 


52  ORISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  Sunday  Morning. 

may  we  live  to  thee,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord. 

And  may  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ, 
and  the  love  of  God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy 
Ghost,  be  with  us  evermore.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  Sunday  Morning. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everliving  God,  who  art  always 
more  willing  to  hear  than  we  to  pray,  and  art  wont 
to  give  more  than  either  we  desire  or  deserve,  look 
down  upon  us,  we  beseech  thee,  in  mercy ;  forgive 
us  the  things  wherein  we  have  sinned  against  thee: 
and  give  us  hearts  to  be  thankful  for  those  good 
things  which  we  daily  receive.  We  thank  thee,  O 
God,  that  we  are  brought  to  see  the  light  of  another 
day,  and  the  commencement  of  another  week. 
This  is  the  day  that  the  Lord  hath  made ;  may  we 
be  glad  and  rejoice  in  it,  with  holy  joy  and  thank- 
ful hearts. 

Give  us  grace,  O  Lord,  to  sanctify  thy  holy  day 
of  rest,  according  to  thy  appointment,  and  to  be 
thankful  that  the  Sabbath  was  made  for  man,  to 
be  a  season  for  laying  aside  our  temporal  cares, 
and  presenting  before  thee  our  humble  adorations. 
We  look  unto  thee  for  thy  blessing  on  our  obser- 
vance of  this  day  which  thou  hast  set  apart  for  thy- 
self. May  we  spend  this  holy  time  to  the  honor  of 
thy  name.  May  it  be  to  us  a  season  of  refreshing 
from  thy  presence,  and  of  mercy  to  our  souls.  May 
thy  spirit  accompany  us  to  thy  sanctuary,  and 
make  us  joyful  in  thy  house  of  prayer.  Give  us 
grace  so  to  join  and  engage  in  the  service  of  thy 
church,  that  the  words  of  our  mouth  and  the  medi- 
tations of  our  heart  may  be  acceptable  in  thy  sigb  \. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  53 

A  Prayer  for  Sunday  Morning. 

May  we  love  the  habitation  of  thy  house,  and  the 
place  where  thine  honor  dwelleth.  Help  us  to  pray 
with  the  spirit  and  with  the  understanding,  and  to 
receive  with  meekness  the  words  of  eternal  life. 

May  thy  Spirit  be  with  the  ministers  of  thy  gos- 
pel ;  and  so  bless  thy  word  spoken  by  their  mouth, 
that  it  may  minister  grace  to  the  hearers.  May  it 
fall  upon  those  who  have  ears  to  hear,  and  in  an 
honest  and  good  heart  be  received.  May  the  doc- 
trines of  life  be  ingrafted  in  their  hearts,  and  bring 
forth  in  them  the  fruits  of  good  living. 

Dispose,  O  Lord,  and  prepare  our  souls  to  per- 
form faithfully  all  the  duties  suited  to  this  holy 
time ;  to  receive  the  full  benefit  of  the  ordinances 
which  thou  hast  prepared  for  our  edification  and 
spiritual  good,  and  to  walk  before  thee  in  holiness 
and  righteousness  all  our  days. 

Grant  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  that  all  who 
draw  nigh  to  thee  this  day,  to  give  thee  thanks  for 
benefits  received ;  to  set  forth  thy  praise ;  to  con- 
fess their  sins  before  thee,  and  to  pray  for  what 
they  need :  may  do  it  according  to  thy  will,  and 
obtain  thy  heavenly  benediction.  May  all  thy  peo- 
ple be  in  the  spirit  on  the  Lord's  day,  and  devote 
themselves  to  him  who  is  Lord  of  the  Sabbath,  and 
worship  the  Father  in  spirit  and  in  truth.  Let  that 
light  which  is  above  the  brightness  of  the  sun 
shine  in  our  hearts,  to  give  us  the  knowledge  of  the 
glory  of  God  in  the  face  of  Jesus  Christ.  May  we 
this  day  experience  the  power  of  Christ's  resurrec- 
tion ;  that,  as  he  was  raised  up  from  the  dead  by 
the  glory  of  the  Father,  so  we  may  walk  in  new- 
ness of  life. 

And  extend,  O  Lord,  thy  heavenly  benediction 

to  the  whole  of  thy  church  universal.     Pour  out 

thy  spirit  upon  its  members,  and  in  thine  own  good 

time  bring  into  its  bosom  those  on  whom  the  light 

5* 


54  ORISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Sunday  Evening. 

of  the  gospel  has  not  yet  shined ;  and  may  all  who 
have  received  it,  live  as  becomes  it. 

Hear,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  these  our  humble 
supplications  and  prayers.  Preserve  us  this  day  from 
all  evil ;  give  us  those  good  things  which  thou  shalt 
see  to  be  needful  and  convenient ;  and  give  us  grace 
that  we  may  rightly  use  them.  This  we  ask  in  the 
name  of  him  who  died  for  our  sins,  and  rose  again 
for  our  justification. 

And  may  the  blessing  of  God  Almighty,  the  Fa- 
ther, the  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  with  us  now 
and  evermore.  Amen, 


Sunday  Evening. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  the  author  and 
giver  of  all  good,  by  whose  merciful  protection  we 
have  been  conducted  through  the  perils  of  the  day 
now  past,  we  desire,  this  evening,  humbly  to  bow 
before  thee  with  a  thankful  sense  of  thy  goodness. 
We  bless  thee,  O  God,  for  all  the  means  of  grace, 
and  for  every  opportunity  afforded  to  us  of  becom- 
ing wise  unto  salvation.  We  bless  thee  for  casting 
our  lot  in  a  Christian  land,  where  the  gospel  of  sal- 
vation is  preached,  and  thy  blessed  word  is  a  lan- 
tern to  our  feet  and  a  light  to  our  paths.  We  bless 
thee  for  the  privilege  of  being  nurtured  in  a  church 
which  is  built  upon  the  foundation  of  apostles  and 
prophets,  Jesus  Christ  himself  being  the  chief  corner- 
stone. We  desire  to  be  duly  thankful  that  thou 
hast  so  loved  the  world  as  to  send  into  it  thy  only 
begotten  Son,  not  to  condemn,  but  to  save  it ;  and 
for  his  gracious  invitations  to  the  weary  and  heavy- 
laden  to  come  unto  him  that  they  may  have  ever- 
lasting life. 

We  thank  thee,  O  God,  that  we  are  made  reason- 


OBIS  WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  55 

Sunday  Evening. 

able  creatures,  capable  of  knowing  and  loving  and 
serving  thee :  that  our  lives  are  still  preserved ;  and 
especially  for  the  mercies  of  the  day  past ;  that 
we  have  enjoyed  the  privilege  of  another  of  the 
days  of  the  Son  of  man ;  that  we  have  had  another 
opportunity  of  uniting  with  the  congregation  of  thy 
people  in  thy  holy  worship ;  and  for  all  the  bless- 
ings of  thy  sanctuary.  Wherein  we  have  neglected 
to  use  and  to  profit  by  them,  grant  us  forgiveness, 
and  give  us  true  repentance  for  all  our  sins.  Help 
us  hereafter  to  serve  thee  better  and  to  love  thee 
more,  and  daily  to  increase  in  all  virtue  and  godli- 
ness of  living.  Impress  upon  our  hearts,  we  hum- 
bly beseech  thee,  a  lively  and  lasting  sense  of  what 
thou  hast  done  to  save  our  souls  from  sin  and 
death  :  that  whilst  we  were  yet  sinners,  Christ  died 
for  us,  and  put  away  sin  by  the  sacrifice  of  himself. 
Grant,  O  merciful  God,  that  we  may  not  neglect 
this  great  salvation,  offered  us  in  Jesus  Christ. 
Help  us  to  profit  by  all  the  instructions  of  thy 
word,  and  to  be  a  holy  people  unto  thee,  zealous  of 
good  works. 

Accept,  O  Lord,  the  adorations,  and  graciously 
answer  the  prayers,  which  have  during  the  past 
day  been  offered  before  thee ;  and  grant  to  us  and 
to  all  thy  people,  that  what  of  thy  truth  we  have 
heard  with  our  ears,  may  be  implanted  in  our 
hearts,  impressed  upon  our  memories,  and  fruitful 
in  our  lives.  May  we  be  doers  of  thy  word,  and 
not  hearers  only,  deceiving  ourselves.  May  we 
contend  earnestly  for  the  faith  which  was  once  de- 
livered to  the  saints ;  and  to  our  faith  add  virtue, 
knowledge,  temperance,  patience,  godliness,  bro- 
therly kindness  and  charity,  and  give  diligence  to 
make  our  calling  and  election  sure.  What  we  are 
taught  on  the  Lord's  day,  may  we  practise  through 
the  week ;  and  while  we  advance  in  age  may  we 
grow  in  grace  and  in  the  knowledge  of  our  Lord 
and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ. 


56  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Monday  Morning. 

•  May  we  be  duly  thankful  that  the  Son  of  man  is 
Lord  of  the  Sabbath,  and  that  the  ordinances  of  his 
religion  are  accommodated  to  our  wants,  and  are 
profitable  to  those  who  rightly  use  them.  May  they 
be  profitable  to  us  :  may  what  we  have  heard  read 
from  thy  word,  and  spoken  according  to  thy  will, 
be  to  us  a  savor  of  life.  Extend  the  light  of  th)l 
truth  to  those  who  are  in  the  darkness  of  unbelief, 
and  thy  saving  health  unto  all  nations. 

We  commend  ourselves,  and  all  for  whom  we 
ought  to  pray,  to  the  protection  of  thy  good  provi- 
dence. Defend  us  from  the  perils  of  this  night: 
watch  over  us  during  the  hours  of  sleep :  and  if  it 
be  thy  good  pleasure  to  bring  us  to  the  light  of  an- 
other day,  give  us  hearts  to  be  thankful  for  thy 
goodness,  and  grace  to  live  to  thee,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord ;  to  whom,  with  thee  and  the  Holy 
Ghost,  be  all  honor  and  glory,  world  without  end. 
Amen. 


Monday  Morning. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  unto  whom  all 
hearts  are  open,  all  desires  known,  and  from  whom 
no  secrets  are  hid,  behold  with  favor  thy  unworthy- 
creatures  who  desire^  under  a  sense  of  thy  provi- 
dential care,  to  offer  unto  thee  our  morning  sacrifice 
of  prayer  and  praise. 

We  are  here  assembled,  O  Lord,  in  thy  name  and 
presence,  waiting  upon  thee  at  the  footstool  of  thy 
grace.  Cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our  hearts  by  the 
inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit :  blot  out  our  offences 
and  wash  away  our  sins.  Who  can  tell  how  oft  he 
offendeth  1  O  cleanse  thou  us  from  our  secret 
faults.  Keep  us  back,  also,  from  presumptuous 
sins :  let  them  not  have  dominion  over  us.  Let  a 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  67 

Monday  Morning. 

just  sense  of  thy  forbearance  and  long-suffering  lead 
us  to  repentance  not  to  be  repented  of,  and  keep  us 
at  the  foot  of  the  Savior's  cross.  Inspire  us,  O 
Lord,  with  true  devotion,  that  while  we  draw  nigh 
to  thee  with  our  lips,  our  hearts  may  not  be  far  from 
thee.  Keep  us  ever  mindful  of  our  dependence 
upon  thee,  and  quicken  us  in  the  pursuit  of  things 
eternal.  Dispose  us  rightly  to  discharge  the  duties 
of  this  day.  Watch  over  our  paths ;  preserve  us  in 
our  going  out  and  coming  in,  and  direct  all  our 
steps  in  the  way  of  thy  commandments.  In  all  our 
dealings,  may  we  be  honest  and  conscientious; 
make  us  diligent  in  the  works  of  our  calling ;  harm- 
less in  our  conversation ;  meek  in  our  deportment ; 
charitable  and  forgiving  towards  others ;  watchful 
over  ourselves,  and  never  forgetful  of  thee.  May 
we  love  thee,  the  Lord  our  God,  with  all  our  heart 
and  mind  and  soul,  which  is  the  first  and  great 
commandment.  And  may  we  love  our  neighbor 
as  ourselves,  and  do  unto  all  men  as  we  would  that 
they  should  do  unto  us.  O  help  us,  as  our  Savior 
Christ  has  commanded,  to  love  our  enemies,  and  to 
bless  them  who  despitefully  use  and  persecute  us. 
May  we  never  be  overcome  of  evil,  but  endeavor 
to  overcome  evil  with  good.  If  it  be  possible,  and 
as  much  as  lieth  in  us,  may  we  live  peaceably  with 
all  men. 

We  thank  thee,  O  God,  for  the  preservation  of 
our  lives,  and  for  all  the  blessings  which  make  life 
comfortable ;  and  we  humbly  ask  for  the  continu- 
ance of  thy  goodness;  that  thou  wilt  preserve  us 
from  danger  and  from  sin,  and  give  us  such  things 
as  are  needful  and  convenient  for  our  present  com- 
fort, and  for  our  eternal  good.  Help  us  to  keep  in 
continual  remembrance  the  doctrines  of  Christ,  the 
precepts  of  the  gospel,  and  the  duties  of  life,  which 
were  taught  us  on  thy  holy  day  of  rest.  May  we 
live  as  they  should  live  who  are  taught  of  God. 


58  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Monday  Evening. 

We  bless  thy  name,  O  God,  for  the  seasons  and 
opportunities  of  learning  our  duty  and  doing  thy 
will  which  thou  art  weekly  and  daily  bestowing 
upon  us.  Make  us  duly  sensible  how  much  and 
how  wickedly  we  have  neglected  the  right  use  of 
thy  blessings,  and  how  little  we  have  profited  in 
seasons  of  grace.  Remember  not,  Lord,  our  of- 
fences past,  nor  take  thou  vengeance  of  our  sins. 
Withdraw  not  thou  thy  help ;  grant  us  the  comfort 
of  thy  salvation,  and  uphold  us  with  thy  free  spirit; 
that  our  souls  may  bless  thee,  and  all  that  is  within 
us  may  praise  thy  holy  name.  Vouchsafe,  O  Lord, 
to  keep  us  this  day  without  sin,  and  to  dispose  all 
our  ways  towards  the  attainment  of  everlasting 
salvation  :  and  among  all  the  perils  and  changes  of 
this  mortal  life,  may  we  ever  be  defended  by  thy 
most  gracious  and  ready  help.  May  we  continue 
steadfast  in  thy  faith,  and  daily  increase  in  thy  holy 
spirit  more  and  more  until  we  come  to  thine  ever- 
lasting kingdom.  For  thine  is  the  kingdom  and 
the  power,  and  thine  be  the  glory,  forever  and 
ever.  Hear  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  for  the 
sake  of  thy  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


Monday  Evening. 

ALMIGHTY  and  immortal  God,  the  only  Potentate, 
King  of  kings  and  Lord  of  lords,  who  hast  thy 
throne  in  the  highest  heavens,  and  yet  deignest  to 
behold  the  things  that  are  on  earth,  worthy  art  thou 
of  the  praise  and  adoration  of  all  intelligent  beings. 
What  is  man  that  thou  art  mindful  of  him,  and  the 
children  of  men,  that  thou  dost  vouchsafe  to  them 
thy  care  !  Thy  glory  transcends  our  utmost 
thoughts,  and  goodness  shines  in  all  thy  works. 
We,  thy  sinful  and  unworthy  creatures,  humbly 


GRTSWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  59 

Monday  Evening. 

desire  to  approach  thee  in  supplication  and  prayer, 
not  in  our  own  name,  nor  trusting  in  our  own 
righteousness,  but  in  the  name  and  through  the 
merits  of  Jesus  Christ.  For  his  sake  we  beseech 
thee  to  pardon  our  offences,  to  sanctify  our  hearts, 
and  create  us  again  unto  good  works.  We  are  not 
sufficient  of  ourselves  to  think,  and  still  less  to  do, 
any  thing  good :  our  sufficiency  is  of  thee.  With- 
out thy  grace  we  incline  to  evil,  and  to  err  and  to 
stray  from  thy  ways  like  lost  sheep.  Enter  not 
into  judgment  with  thy  servants,  O  Lord ;  for  in 
thy  sight  shall  no  man  living  be  justified.  We 
have  an  advocate  with  thee,  O  our  heavenly  Fa- 
ther, and  may  he  be  the  propitiation  for  our  sins. 
To  thee,  through  his  merits,  belong  mercy  and  for- 
giveness, though  we  have  rebelled  against  thee. 
Grant  us,  we  beseech  thee,  redemption  through  his 
blood,  even  the  forgiveness  of  sins,  according  to 
the  riches  of  thy  grace.  O  give  us  the  comfort 
of  thy  help,  and  stablish  us  with  thy  free  spirit. 
Without  thee,  nothing  is  pure,  nothing  is  holy : 
increase  and  multiply  upon  us  thy  mercy,  that, 
thou  being  our  guide  and  strength,  we  may  so  pass 
through  things  temporal,  that  we  finally  lose  not 
the  things  eternal.  Work  in  us  that  repentance 
which  is  not  to  be  repented  of,  and  that  faith  in  the 
Lord  Jesus  Christ  which  renews  the  heart  and 
overcomes  the  world. 

We  bless  thee,  O  God,  for  thy  patience  and  long- 
suffering  with  those  who  are  forgetful  of  thy  good- 
ness, and  that  time  and  opportunity  for  repentance 
and  amendment  of  life  are  still  vouchsafed  to  us. 
We  bless  thee,  O  God,  that  thou  hast  laid  help  on 
one  who  is  mighty,  and  that  Jesus  Christ  is  the  end 
of  the  law  for  righteousness  to  those  who  believe. 
May  the  life  we  live  be  by  faith  in  the  Son  of  God. 
Stablish  us  in  thy  love ;  strengthen  us  to  do  good, 
and  guide  our  steps  in  the  way  of  righteousness  and 


60  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Tuesday  Morning. 

peace.  Help  us  daily  to  examine  our  hearts  and 
lives,  and  to  be  conformed  in  all  things  to  thy  holy 
will. 

Thou  hast  taught  us,  O  God,  that  all  our  doings, 
without  charity,  are  nothing  worth;  inspire  our 
hearts  with  true  Christian  love.  May  that  spirit 
be  in  us,  which  was  in  our  Savior  Christ ;  a  spirit 
of  benevolence ;  and  a  delight  in  doing  good  to  all 
men,  and  especially  unto  them  who  are  of  the 
household  of  faith.  May  we  owe  no  man  any 
thing,  but  to  love  one  another  with  that  love  which 
is  the  fulfilling  of  the  whole  law. 

Make  us  thankful,  O  Lord,  that  we  are  called  to 
a  knowledge  of  thy  grace  and  faith  in  Jesus  Christ ; 
increase  this  knowledge  and  confirm  this  faith  in 
our  hearts,  and  make  it  fruitful  in  our  lives.  Grant 
that  we  may  be  also  of  thy  chosen  people;  and 
give  us  grace  to  make  our  calling  and  election  sure. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to  behold  with  thy 
compassionate  goodness  those  who  are  visited  with 
sorrow,  and  all  who,  in  this  transitory  life,  are  in 
need  or  sickness,  or  any  other  adversity.  Grant 
them  patience  under  their  sufferings,  and  a  happy 
issue  out  of  their  afflictions. 

Extend,  we  beseech  thee,  the  knowledge  of  thy 
truth ;  bless  thy  word  wherever  it  is  spoken,  and 
send  it  where  it  is  not  heard ;  and  may  the  borders 
of  Zion  be  more  and  still  more  enlarged,  till  all  the 
ends  of  the  earth  shall  see  the  salvation  of  our  God. 
We  ask  these  things  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ, 
our  blessed  Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


Tuesday  Morning. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  the  fountain  of  all 
wisdom,  mercy  and  grace,  who  hast  formed  the  spi- 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  61 

Tuesday  Morning. 

rit  of  man  within  him.  and  fitted  him  to  serve  and 
worship  thee,  we  desire,  as  thy  children  and  the 
work  of  thy  hands,  to  lift  once  more  our  heart  and 
voice  in  prayer  and  praise  to  thee.  Once  more 
have  we  laid  us  down  in  peace  and  taken  rest,  and 
through  thy  goodness  are  risen  again  in  safety. 
May  the  lives  which  thy  goodness  renews  every 
morning,  and  thy  providence  every  moment  sus- 
tains, be  devoted  to  thee.  As  a  father  spareth  his 
son  that  serveth  him,  wilt  thou,  O  Lord,  have  mercy 
upon  us ! 

We  desire,  O  God,  to  adore  thy  name,  which  is 
excellent  in  all  the  earth,  and  whose  glory  is  above 
the  heavens.  We  bless  thee  for  the  rest  and  pre- 
servation of  the  night  past.  O  cause  us  to  hear  thy 
loving  kindness  in  the  morning,  for  in  thee  do  we 
trust.  Make  us  to  know  the  way  wherein  we 
should  go,  for  which  we  would  continue  daily  to 
lift  up  our  soul  unto  thee.  Cast  us  not  away  from 
thy  presence,  nor  take  thy  Holy  Spirit  from  us ;  but 
direct  our  hearts  into  thy  love,  and  our  feet  into  the 
way  of  thy  testimonies.  May  we  be  ever  found  in 
the  way  of  duty,  fearing  God  and  working  right- 
eousness ;  walking  in  the  steps  of  thy  blessed  Son ; 
making  it  evident  to  all  that  we  are  influenced  by 
his  spirit,  guided  by  his  example,  and  pressing 
forward  to  his  kingdom.  Day  by  day  would  we 
magnify  thee,  O  Lord,  and  worship  thy  name  for- 
ever and  ever. 

But  we  are  unworthy,  through  our  manifold  sins, 
to  offer  unto  thee  any  worship.  Enter  not  into 
judgment  with  thy  servants,  O  Lord,  but  spare 
those  whom  thou  hast  redeemed.  Have  mercy 
upon  us  after  thy  great  goodness ;  according  to  the 
multitude  of  thy  mercies  do  away  our  offences. 

We  beseech  thee  to  take  us  this  day  under  thy 
holy  care  and  keeping.  Grant  us  such  measures 
of  thy  grace  as  may  fit  us  for  the  duties  of  our  re- 

6 


62  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Tuesday  Morning. 

spective  stations.  Make  us  respectful  to  our  supe- 
riors ;  friendly  to  our  equals ;  kind  to  the  poor,  and 
charitable  and  forgiving  to  those  who  do  us  wrong. 
Cause  us  to  delight  in  thy  holy  worship  and  in  the 
performance  of  all  religious  duties.  Grant  that  we 
may  be  doers  of  thy  word,  and  let  our  light  so  shine 
before  men,  that  they  may  see  our  good  works,  and 
glorify  thee,  our.  heavenly  Father.  Help  us  to  ho- 
nor thee  in  our  lives,  and  give  us  understanding 
that  we  may  keep  the  law  with  our  whole  heart 
Preserve  us  from  all  idolatrous  affection  for  the 
things  of  this  world ;  may  we  never  be  lovers  of 
pleasure  more  than  lovers  of  God. 

And  accept,  O  Lord,  of  our  intercessions  for  all 
mankind.  May  the  light  of  thy  glorious  gospel 
shine  throughout  this  sinful  world ;  and  to  all  those 
who  are  sitting  in  darkness  and  the  shadow  of 
death,  may  the  Sun  of  Righteousness  arise  with 
healing  in  his  wings.  May  thy  word  have  free 
course,  and,  through  thy  blessing,  be  a  savor  of  life 
to  those  who  hear  it,  producing  repentance  towards 
God  and  faith  towards  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Give 
thy  blessing  to  thy  church ;  and  especially  to  the 
congregation  of  thy  people  with  whom  we  are  more 
particularly  connected.  Endue  the  ministers  of 
thy  gospel  with  heavenly  wisdom  and  holy  zeal ; 
and  grant  that,  by  their  preaching  and  living,  they 
may  show  the  truth  of  thy  word  and  the  power  of 
thy  grace.  Do  thou,  O  God,  who  knowest  our  ne- 
cessities before  we  ask,  and  the  infirmity  of  our  na- 
ture, forgive  the  imperfection  of  these  our  prayers, 
and  answer  them  in  thy  wisdom  and  mercy,  for  the 
sake  of  thy  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  63 

Tuesday  Evening. 


Tuesday  Evening. 

O  ETERNAL  God,  mighty  in  power,  and  of  majesty 
incomprehensible,  who  art  exalted  above  the  hea- 
vens, while  we,  thy  sinful  creatures,  are  here  upon 
the  earth,  we  desire,  from  this  our  humble  state,  to 
laud  and  magnify  thy  glorious  name.  It  is  a  good 
thing  to  give  thanks  unto  the  Lord,  and  to  sing 
praises  unto  thy  name,  O  most  Highest ;  to  tell  of 
thy  loving  kindness  early  in  the  morning,  and  of 
thy  truth  in  the  night  season. 

We  present  ourselves,  O  Lord,  before  thee,  in 
humble  adoration,  as  creatures  unworthy  the  least 
of  thy  mercies.  Blessed  are  they  who  dwell  in  thy 
house,  and  blessed  is  the  house  where  thou  dwell- 
est ;  blessed  is  the  man  whose*  strength  is  in  thee, 
and  in  whose  heart  are  thy  ways.  Grant,  we  be- 
seech thee,  that  this  blessing  may  be  ours ;  visit  us 
with  thy  gracious  presence,  and  rejoice  us  with  the 
tokens  of  thy  love.  Let  our  prayers  be  set  forth  in 
thy  sight  as  incense,  and  may  the  lifting  up  of 
our  hands  in  supplication  be  an  evening  sacrifice 
holy  and  acceptable  unto  thee. 

We  acknowledge,  O  heavenly  Father,  that  we 
have  sinned  against  heaven  and  before  thee,  and 
are  not  wcrthy  to  be  called  thy  children,  nor  to  ask 
for  thy  grace.  May  thy  Holy  Spirit  convince  us  of 
sin,  of  righteousness  and  of  judgment ;  and  so  quick- 
en our  repentance  and  strengthen  our  faith,  that  we 
may  obtain  of  thee,  the  God  of  all  mercy,  perfect 
remission  and  forgiveness,  and  enjoy  that  peace 
which  the  world  cannot  give.  As  the  heavens  are 
higher  than  the  earth,  so  great  let  thy  mercy  be  to- 
wards us ;  as  far  as  the  east  is  from  the  west,  do 
thou,  the  God  of  mercy,  set  our  sins  from  us.  May 
our  Savior  Christ  be  to  us  wisdom  and  righteous- 


64  ORISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Tuesday  Evening. 

ness  and  sanctification  and  redemption,  and  all  our 
glorying  be  in  him.  O  may  thy  grace  be  sufficient 
for  us,  and  thy  strength  be  so  made  perfect  in 
weakness,  that  we  may  be  strong  in  the  Lord  and 
in  the  power  of  his  might,  and  strive  successfully 
to  enter  in  at,  the  strait  gate. 

And  help  us,  O  Lord,  to  offer,  and  graciously  ac- 
cept our  evening  sacrifice  of  praise  and  thanksgiv- 
ing. Every  day  would  we  give  thanks  unto  thee, 
and  praise  thy  name  forever  and  ever.  Great  art 
thou,  O  Lord,  and  marvellous ;  worthy  to  be  prais- 
ed ;  there  is  no  end  of  thy  greatness.  One  genera- 
tion shall  praise  thy  works  unto  another,  and  de- 
clare thy  power.  Thou  art  gracious  and  merciful, 
long-suffering  and  of  great  goodness  ;  thou  art  lov- 
ing unto  every  man,  and  thy  mercy  is  over  all  thy 
works.  All  thy  works  praise  thee,  O  Lord,  and 
thy  saints  give  thanks  unto  thee.  Make  us  truly 
thankful  that  our  voices  may  be  heard  among  them. 

We  bless  thee,  O  God,  for  thy  daily  goodness  to 
us  and  to  all  men ;  for  our  life  and  health,  our  food 
and  raiment,  our  mental  endowments,  and  for  all 
our  social  enjoyments.  We  bless  thee  that  we  live 
in  a  land  where  the  gospel  is  preached  and  thy 
word  is  known;  and  that  we  have  the  offer  and 
the  means  of  salvation  in  Jesus  Christ.  Make  us, 
we  beseech  thee,  duly  thankful  for  these  thy  mer- 
cies ;  and  give  us  grace  that  we  may  rightly  use 
them  to  thy  glory,  and  to  our  own  and  others' 
salvation.  . 

And  we  pray  that  these  privileges  which  we  en- 
joy may  be  extended  to  all  who  need  them.  Let 
thy  Spirit  be  with  thy  ministers  who  labor  to  evan- 
gelize the  nations  of  the  earth.  May  thy  word  be 
truly  spoken,  and  in  an  honest  and  good  heart  re- 
ceived. And  grant  that  all  Christians  may  be  so 
joined  together  in  unity  of  spirit  and  in  the  bond  of 
peace,  that  thy  church  may  be  a  holy  temple,  ac- 
ceptable unto  thee. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  65 

Wednesday  Morning. 

And  wilt  thou,  O  merciful  Lord,  grant  to  this 
family  the  abundance  of  thy  grace !  Defend  us 
from  evil ;  watch  over  us  for  good,  and  take  us,  and 
all  that  appertains  to  us,  under  thy  holy  care  and 
keeping.  These  things,  and  whatever  else  thou 
seest  fitting  for  us,  for  our  neighbors,  relatives  and 
friends,  and  for  thy  whole  church,  we  humbly  ask, 
through  the  mediation  of  Jesus  Christ,  to  whom, 
with  thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all  honor  and 
glory,  world  without  end.  Amen. 


Wednesday  Morning. 

•  i  •.  '    .  . 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  the  Maker  of  all 
things,  the  Father  of  our  spirits,  the  Life  of  them 
who  believe,  and  the  Resurrection  of  the  dead,  thou 
alone  art  worthy  of  all  adoration  and  praise.  To 
thee  all  angels  cry  aloud ;  the  heavens  and  all  the 
powers  therein.  The  holy  church  throughout  all 
the  world  doth  worship  thee ;  and  with  angels  and 
archangels,  and  with  all  the  company  of  heaven, 
we  laud  and  magnify  thy  glorious  name.  We  bless 
thee  for  thy  adorable  perfections,  and  for  all  the 
wonders  thou  doest  for  the  children  of  men.  We 
thank  thee  for  thy  unnumbered  mercies  vouchsafed 
to  us  thy  unworthy  creatures ;  and  especially  that 
our  lives  are  still  preserved,  and  that  we  are  per- 
mitted this  morning  to  open  our  lips  that  we  may 
show  forth  thy  praise.  May  these  our  thankful 
offerings  flow  from  lips  unfeigned,  and  from  hearts 
sincere. 

We  are  unworthy,  through  our  manifold  sins,  to 
offer  unto  thee  any  sacrifice,  and  our  humblest  sup- 
plications will  need  thy  pardon;  yet  we  beseech 
thee  to  accept  this  our  bounden  duty  and  service, 
not  weighing  our  merits,  but  pardoning  our  of- 
6*  E 


66  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Wednesday  Morning. 

fences.  Give  us,  O  Lord,  the  spirit  of  humble 
supplication:  help  our  infirmities,  and  teach  us 
how  to  pray. 

Help  us,  O  Lord,  each  one  to  do  his  duty  in  that 
state  of  life  to  which  respectively  we  are  called, 
with  diligence  and  fidelity.  May  we  abound  in 
love ;  abhor  that  which  is  evil,  cleave  to  that  which 
is  good ;  not  be  slothful  in  business,  but  fervent  in 
spirit,  serving  the  Lord.  Give  us  grace  to  rejoice 
with  them  that  do  rejoice,  and  to  weep  with  them 
that  weep.  May  we  recompense  to  no  man  evil  for 
evil ;  but  endeavor  to  overcome  evil  with  good,  and 
to  provide  things  honest  in  the  sight  of  all  men. 
Help  us  to  resist  temptation  and  escape  the  snares 
of  sin.  Make  us  ever  mindful  of  thy  presence  and 
desirous  of  thy  grace.  Open  thou  our  eyes  that 
we  may  see  the  excellence  of  thy  law :  give  us  un- 
derstanding that  we  may  know  thy  testimonies  and 
write  the  words  of  thy  gospel  in  our  hearts.  Direct 
and  bless  us  in  our  endeavors  to  know  and  to  do 
thy  will :  make  us  contented  with  what  thou  shalt 
provide  for  us ;  industrious  in  some  honest  calling, 
and  temperate  in  all  things.  Make  us  thankful  for 
all  the  good  that  we  receive,  and  kind  to  those  who 
need  the  blessings  which  we  enjoy.  May  all  bitter- 
ness and  anger  and  evil  speaking  be  put  away  from 
us,  with  all  malice :  and  may  we  be  kind  one  to 
another,  tender-hearted,  forgiving  one  another,  even 
as  thou  hast,  we  hope  and  pray,  for  Christ's  sake, 
forgiven  us. 

Have  mercy,  O  Lord,  upon  all  those  who  are  still 
in  the  gall  of  bitterness  and  in  the  bond  of  iniquity, 
living  in  sin,  and  without  God  in  the  world.  Con- 
vert their  souls  and  bring  them  home,  blessed  Lord, 
to  thy  flock,  that  they  may  be  saved  among  the 
remnant  of  the  true  Israelites,  and  become  one  fold 
under  one  Shepherd. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to  bless  our  country 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  67 

Wednesday  Evening. 

with  prosperity  and  peace.  May  this  nation  be  a 
people  serving  thee,  having  thee  for  their  God,  and 
thy  word  for  their  guide.  Bless  our  civil  rulers,  and 
all  who  are  in  authority  over  us,  with  wisdom,  jus- 
tice and  truth.  And  wilt  thou  extend  the  blessings 
of  light  and  liberty,  and  pure  and  undefiled  religion, 
to  all  the  nations  of  the  earth.  May  thy  kingdom 
come :  may  the  time  arrive  when  the  mountain  of 
the  Lord's  house  shall  be  established  in  the  top  of 
the  mountains,  and  shall  be  exalted  above  the  hills, 
and  all  nations  shall  flow  unto  it. 

Let  thy  spirit,  O  Lord,  be  with  us  this  day  and 
while  we  live.  Give  us  grace  to  love  and  fear  thee, 
and  diligently  to  live  after  thy  commandments.  In 
all  our  doings  and  desires;  in  our  going  out  and 
coming  in ;  in  the  business  of  our  callings,  and  in 
the  work  which  our  hands  find  to  do,  wilt  thou 
rule  our  hearts,  strengthen  our  hands,  and  give  us 
thy  blessing.  May  we  love  the  things  which  thou 
commandest,  and  desire  those  which  thou  dost  pro- 
mise ;  and  among  all  the  manifold  changes  and  pe- 
rils of  this  world,  may  our  hearts  be  surely  fixed 
where  true  joys  are  to  be  found,  through  Jesus 
Christ. 

And  may  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and 
the  love  of  God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy 
Ghost,  be  with  us  evermore.  Amen. 


Wednesday  Evening. 

ADORABLE  Creator,  who  art  exalted  above  all 
thrones  and  dominions,  dwelling  between  the  che- 
rubim, in  the  holy  place  of  the  highest  heavens, 
and  yet  humblest  thyself  to  behold  the  things  that 
are  in  heaven  and  on  earth,  and  to  hear  the  prayers 
of  thy  unworthy  creatures,  be  pleased  now,  we  be- 


68  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Wednesday  Evening. 

seech  thee,  to  hear  the  petitions  which  we  would 
offer  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ. 

Another  day  is  taken  from  our  scanty  span  of 
life,  and  may  it  awaken  in  us  a  lively  sense  of  the 
importance  of  time,  and  that  the  period  is  swiftly 
approaching  when  time  with  us  will  be  no  more. 
Teach  us,  we  beseech  thee,  so  to  number  our  days 
that  we  may  apply  our  hearts  to  true  wisdom. 
Grant  that  the  time  and  opportunities  which  thy 
patient  goodness  may  yet  vouchsafe  to  us,  may  be 
rightly  used  to  the  purposes  of  our  Christian  calling. 
As  we  advance  in  age,  may  we  grow  in  grace. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to  turn  thy  face  from 
our  sins,  and  to  blot  out  all  our  iniquities.  Make 
us  a  clean  heart,  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within 
us.  The  sacrifice  in  which  thou  delightest  is  a 
meek  and  humble  spirit :  a  broken  and  a  contrite 
heart,  O  God,  wilt  thou  not  despise.  Remember 
not,  Lord,  our  offences,  nor  the  offences  of  our  fore- 
fathers; neither  take  thou  vengeance  of  our  sins. 
Spare  us,  good  Lord,  spare  thy  people  whom  thou 
hast  redeemed  with  thy  precious  blood,  and  be  not 
angry  with  us  forever.  Cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our 
hearts  by  the  inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit,  that 
we  may  perfectly  love  thee,  and  worthily  magnify 
thy  holy  name. 

Though  we  have  wickedly  transgressed,  to  whom 
can  we  go  for  pardon  and  acceptance  but  unto  thee, 
O  thou  Savior  of  men,  who  alone  hast  the  words  of 
eternal  life  ?  If  thou  speak  the  word,  we  shall  be 
healed.  Cast  us  not  away  from  thy  presence,  nor 
take  thy  Holy  Spirit  from  us.  Direct,  sanctify  and 
govern  both  our  hearts  and  our  bodies  in  the  ways 
of  thy  laws,  and  in  the  works  of  thy  command- 
ments. May  we  seek  first,  and  above  all  things, 
the  kingdom  of  God  and  his  righteousness.  In- 
crease and  multiply  upon  us  thy  mercy,  that,  thou 
being  our  ruler  and  guide,  we  may  so  pass  through 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  69 

Wednesday  Evening. 

the  perils  and  trials  of  this  life,  that  we  may  arrive 
at  the  glorified  state  of  thy  heavenly  kingdom. 
Create  us  again  unto  good  works.  Inspire  in  our 
hearts  that  charity  which  is  the  bond  of  perfectness ; 
which  suffereth  long  and  is  kind ;  which  envieth 
not ;  which  seeketh  not  her  own,  and  thinketh  no 
evil :  inspire  us  with  that  Christian  love  which 
worketh  no  ill  to  our  neighbor,  and  is  the  fulfilling 
of  the  whole  law. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  the  course  of  this  world  may 
be  so  peaceably  ordered  by  thy  governance,  that 
thy  church  may  serve  thee  in  all  godly  quietness ; 
and  that  all  those  who  confess  thy  name  may  agree 
in  the  truth  of  thy  holy  word,  and  live  in  unity  and 
godly  love.  May  it  please  thee  to  bring  into  the 
way  of  truth  all  such  as  have  erred,  and  are  de- 
ceived ;  to  strengthen  such  as  do  stand ;  to  comfort 
and  help  the  weak-hearted ;  to  raise  up  those  who 
fall,  and  subdue  our  spiritual  foes. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  to  bless  the  people  of 
this  our  country ;  defend  them  from  every  evil,  and 
from  every  foe.  Surely  trusting  in  thy  defence, 
may  we  not  fear  the  power  of  any  adversary ; — may 
the  Lord  be  our  God,  and  his  word  our  guide. 
Bless  the  people  and  the  government  of  this  state 
in  which  we  live.  Give  thy  blessing  to  the  inha- 
bitants of  this  town,  and  inspire  thy  church  and 
people  here  with  godly  zeal  and  Christian  love. 
Send  down  upon  the  ministers  of  thy  gospel,  and 
upon  the  congregations  committed  to  their  charge, 
the  healthful  spirit  of  thy  grace  and  the  continual 
dew  of  thy  heavenly  benediction. 

Do  thou,  who  hast  graciously  promised  to  hear 
the  petitions  of  those  who  ask  in  thy  Son's  name, 
mercifully  incline  thine  ears  to  us  who  have  now 
made  our  prayers  and  supplications  unto  thee,  and 
grant  our  petitions  for  the  sake  of  our  Savior,  Jesus 
Christ. 


70  GRISWOLD'S  PRATERS. 

Thursday  Morning. 

And  may  the  peace  of  God,  which  passeth  un- 
derstanding, keep  our  hearts  and  minds  in  the 
knowledge  and  love  of  God ;  and  the  blessing  of  the 
Father}  Son,  and  Holy  Ghost  be  ever  with  us. 
Amen. 


Thursday  Morning. 

O  LORD  God,  who  art  the  hope  of  all  the  ends  of 
the  earth;  who  alone  givest  life  and  health  and 
peace ;  thou  art  our  God,  and  early  will  we  seek 
thee.  Thou  art  nigh  unto  them  who  call  upon 
thee  faithfully.  Thy  eyes,  O  Lord,  are  over  the 
righteous,  and  thy  ears  are  open  to  their  prayers. 
Thou  art  nigh  unto  them  who  are  of  a  contrite 
heart,  and  wilt  save  such  as  are  of  an  humble  spirit. 
Create  and  make  in  us  new  and  contrite  hearts: 
hear  the  prayers  and  accept  the  praise  which  we 
desire  this  morning  to  offer  before  thee.  Have  re- 
spect, we  beseech  thee,  to  us  and  to  our  offering, 
and  meet  with  thy  blessing  those  who  desire  to 
seek  thee  in  prayer,  and  make  thy  throne  to  us  a 
throne  of  grace. 

We  would  look  unto  thee,  O  God,  as  our  Father 
who  art  in  heaven,  and  the  Creator  and  Preserver 
of  all  mankind.  Thou  hast  made  us,  and  not  we 
ourselves :  we  are  thy  people,  and  the  sheep  of  thy 
pasture ;  we  worship  and  fall  down  and  kneel  be- 
fore thee  as  the  Lord  our  Maker,  and  the  Giver  of  all 
good.  If  any  man  sin,  we  have  an  Advocate  with 
thee,  O  heavenly  Father,  and  may  he  be  the  propi- 
tiation for  our  sins.  We  are  unworthy  to  offer  unto 
thee  any  sacrifice ;  through  Him  alone,  our  merito- 
rious High  Priest,  we  approach  thee,  O  God,  that 
we  may  find  mercy  and  grace  to  help  us  in  the 
time  of  need.  O  Lord,  increase  our  faith,  and  let 
thy  Spirit  Kelp  our  infirmities,  and  teach  us  to  ask 


GRIS WOLD'S   PRAYERS. 


Thursday  Morning. 


for  such  things,  and  with  such  devotion,  as  shall 
please  thee,  and  that  our  prayers  may  ascend  as 
grateful  incense. 

We  give  thee  thanks  for  the  preservation  of  the 
night  past,  and  for  the  comforts  vouchsafed  to  us 
this  morning ;  beseeching  thee  to  take  us,  this  day, 
and  all  that  is  ours,  under  thy  guidance  and  pro- 
tection. Grant  that  all  our  doings  may  be  ordered 
by  thy  governance,  and  righteous  in  thy  sight. 
Teach  us  the  worth  of  our  immortal  souls,  and  the 
great  salvation  wrought  for  us  in  Jesus  Christ. 
May  we  never  be  ashamed  to  confess  him  before 
men ;  but  glory  in  bearing  his  cross,  and  being  his 
disciples.  May  our  conversation  be  such  as  becometh 
his  gospel ;  and  may  the  whole  conduct  of  our  lives, 
the  words  of  our  mouth,  and  the  meditation  of  our 
heart,  be  always  acceptable  in  thy  sight,  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  strength  and  our  Redeemer. 

We  thank  thee,  O  heavenly  Father,  for  all  the 
blessings  we  receive,  both  of  providence  and  grace. 
But  above  all  we  adore  thee  for  thy  inestimable 
love  in  the  redemption  of  the  world  by  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ.  Give  us,  we  pray  thee,  that  due 
sense  of  thy  goodness,  that  our  hearts  may  be  duly 
thankful,  and  our  lives  be  devoted  unto  thee.  May 
thy  Spirit  lead  us  into  all  truth,  and  make  us  fruit- 
ful in  every  good  word  and  work.  Let  not  the 
cares  of  this  world  cause  us  to  neglect  the  one  thing 
needful ;  but  help  us  rather  to  lay  up  our  treasures 
where  moth  and  rust  cannot  destroy  them.  Ac- 
cording as  we  have  opportunity,  may  we  do  good 
unto  all  men.  May  we  love  those  that  love  the 
Lord  Jesus,  and  may  the  spirit  which  was  in  him 
be  also  in  us.  May  we  abhor  that  which  is  evil, 
and  in  all  things  cleave  to  that  which  is  good :  be 
kind  and  affectionate ;  rejoicing  in  hope ;  patient  in 
tribulation ;  given  to  hospitality. 

Hear  us,  O  Lord,  in  mercy :  in  all  we  think  and 


72  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Thursday  Evening. 

do,  may  thy  Holy  Spirit  aid  and  guide  us ;  that  in 
this  world  we  may  live  to  thy  glory,  and  finally, 
by  thy  mercy,  obtain  everlasting  life,  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord,  to  whom,  with  thee  and  the  Holy 
Ghost,  be  all  honor  and  glory,  world  without  end. 
Amen. 

The  Lord  bless  us  and  keep  us ;  the  Lord  lift  up 
the  light  of  his  countenance  upon  us  and  give  us 
peace,  now  and  evermore.  Amen. 


Thursday  Evening. 

O  ETERNAL  God,  thou  Shepherd  of  Israel,  whose 
all-seeing  eye  surveys  the  inhabitants  of  this  lower 
world,  behold  us  thy  dependent  creatures  with  thy 
favor  and  blessing.  Thou,  Lord,  hast  been  our 
refuge  from  one  generation  to  another.  Before  the 
mountains  were  brought  forth,  or  ever  the  earth 
and  the  world  were  made,  thou  art  God  from  ever- 
lasting, and  world  without  end.  All  thy  works 
praise  thee,  and  thy  saints  give  thanks  unto  thee. 
Thou  art  righteous  in  all  thy  ways,  and  holy  in  all 
thy  works.  Thou  art  about  our  bed,  and  about  our 
paths,  and  spiest  out  all  our  ways.  There  is  not  a 
word  of  our  mouth,  nor  a  thought  or  intent  of  our 
heart,  but  thou,  O  Lord,  knowest  it  altogether.  The 
darkness  is  no  darkness  to  thee :  with  thee  the  night 
is  as  clear  as  the  day.  Wherewith  shall  we,  thy 
sinful  creatures,  come  before  thee,  and  bow  our- 
selves before  the  high  God?  What  sacrifice  shall 
atone  for  our  multiplied  transgressions?  Will  the 
Lord  be  pleased  with  thousands  of  rams,  or  with 
rivers  of  oil  ?  Thou  hast  shown  us  what  is  good ; 
thou  hast  laid  help  on  one  who  is  mighty.  Thou 
hast  given  thy  only  Son  to  be  our  Savior,  who  has 
put  away  sin  by  the  sacrifice  of  himself.  O  give 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  73 

Thursday  Evening. 

us  that  faith  in  him  which  worketh  by  love,  that 
we  may  do  justly,  love  mercy,  and  walk  humbly 
with  thee. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  heavenly  Father,  mercifully 
to  look  upon  our  infirmities,  and  through  the  merits 
of  our  Savior,  and  for  the  glory  of  thy  great  name, 
turn  from  us  all  those  evils  that  we  most  justly 
have  deserved ;  and  in  all  the  afflictions  that  we 
may  suffer,  may  we  confide  in  thy  mercy  and  sub- 
mit to  thy  will.  May  we  ever  look  unto  thee  as 
the  greatest  good,  and  to  thy  loving  kindness  as 
better  than  life  itself.  May  we  never  neglect  thy 
great  salvation :  being  justified  by  faith,  may  we 
have  peace  with  thee.  Make  us  wise  and  faithful 
in  all  the  duties  of  life  and  of  religion.  Let  not  sin 
reign  in  our  mortal  bodies,  nor  any  vain  desire  pos- 
sess our  hearts.  Help  us  so  to  number  our  days, 
and  to  view  the  uncertainty  of  their  continuance, 
that  we  may  ever  be  watchful  and  prepared,  as 
they  who  wait  for  the  coming  of  their  Lord.  Re- 
strain us  from  all  immoderate  desire  of  temporal 
things,  that  we  may  use  the  world  as  not  abusing 
it.  Help  us  rightly  to  value  the  true  riches,  and  to 
have  our  conversation  in  heaven.  Cause  us  to  love 
thy  word,  and  to  delight  in  thy  laws ;  and  so  en- 
lighten our  minds  and  purify  our  affections,  that 
we  may  embrace  and  ever  hold  fast  the  blessed 
hope  of  everlasting  life,  which  thou  hast  given  us 
in  our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ. 

Accept,  O  Lord,  of  our  prayers  for  all  of  our  fel- 
low-men ;  that  thy  ways  may  be  known  unto  them, 
and  thy  saving  health  be  extended  to  all  the  na- 
tions of  the  earth.  Have  mercy  upon  all  who 
are  now  living  in  sin,  and  in  the  darkness  of  unbe- 
lief. Take  from  them  all  ignorance,  hardness  of 
heart,  and  dislike  of  thy  holy  word ;  and  bring  them, 
blessed  Lord,  into  thy  flock,  that  they  may  be  all  of 


74  GRISW  OLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Friday  Morning. 

one  fold,  and  under  the  one  true  Shepherd,  Jesus 
Christ. 

Be  pleased,  O  God,  to  continue  thy  gracious  pro- 
tection to  us  this  night.  Keep  us  both  outwardly 
in  our  bodies  and  inwardly  in  our  souls.  O  thou 
Keeper  of  Israel,  who  never  slumberest  nor  sleepest, 
take  charge  of  us  and  ours,  and  watch  over  us  for 
good.  Preserve  us  from  sin  and  from  peril :  may 
we  lie  down  in  peace  and  take  our  rest  in  the  com- 
forting belief  that  it  is  thou,  O  God,  who  makest  us 
to  dwell  in  safety.  Fit  and  prepare  us  for  that 
heavenly  rest  which  remaineth  for  the  people  of 
God.  We  offer  these,  our  evening  devotions,  in 
the  name  of  Jesus  Christ :  and  may  his  grace  be 
ever  with  us.  Amen. 


Friday  Morning. 

O  GOD,  the  King  of  kings  and  Lord  of  lords,  who 
art  eternal,  immortal,  invisible,  the  Maker  of  the 
world  and  of  all  that  is  therein,  worthy  art  thou  to 
receive  glory  and  honor  and  power ;  for  thou  hast 
created  all  things,  and  for  thy  pleasure  they  are 
and  were  created.  Our  life  is  thine :  our  hearts 
are  in  thy  hand,  and  our  secret  thoughts  are  known 
to  thee.  We  adore  thee  as  the  giver  of  all  good. 
The  eyes  of  all  wait  upon  thee ;  thou  openest  thy 
hand  and  fillest  all  things  living  with  plenteous- 
ness.  Thy  mercies  fail  not,  but  are  new  every 
morning ;  of  the  least  of  them  we  are  unworthy. 
What  shall  we  render  unto  thee,  O  Lord,  for  all  thy 
benefits !  Awaken  in  our  souls  an  earnest,  thank- 
ful desire  to  take  the  cup  of  salvation  offered  us  in 
Jesus  Christ,  and  through  him  to  call  upon  thy 
holy  name,  as  the  only  hope  of  all  the  ends  of  the 
earth.  Accept,  we  beseech  thee,  this  our  morning 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  75 

Friday  Morning. 

sacrifice  of  praise  and  thanksgiving,  and  hear  the 
supplications  and  prayers  which  we  desire,  with 
humble  adoration,  to  offer  before  thee. 

We  bless  thee,  O  God,  for  thy  preservation  of  us 
from  the  commencement  of  our  lives  to  this  present 
time,  and  especially  for  the  rest  and  refreshment  of 
the  past  night ;  that  we  were  permitted  once  more 
to  lie  down  in  peace  and  take  our  rest,  and  that 
thou,  O  Lord,  hast  made  us  to  dwell  in  safety.  We 
thank  thee  for  this  and  for  all  thy  daily  goodness  to 
us  and  to  all  men ;  but  chiefly  do  we  bless  thy  holy 
name  for  the  redemption  of  mankind  in  Jesus 
Christ ;  that  in  him  mercy  and  truth  are  met  to- 
gether, righteousness  and  peace  have  kissed  each 
other ;  that  through  his  offering  himself  for  our  sins 
thou  canst  be  just  in  justifying  those  who  believe 
in  him.  We  rejoice  with  thankfulness  that  he  is 
the  resurrection  and  the  life ;  that,  by  rising  from 
the  dead,  he  became  the  first  fruits  of  those  who 
sleep  in  death ;  that  when  he  ascended  on  high  he 
led  captivity  captive,  and  gave  gifts  unto  men — 
even  the  unspeakable  gift  of  the  Holy  Ghost  to  be 
our  comforter. 

Grant,  O  merciful  God,  that  we  may  not  neglect 
this  great  salvation.  For  his  sake  who  came  to 
call,  not  the  righteous,  but  sinners  to  repentance, 
behold  us  with  pity  and  forgive  us  our  sins.  Though 
we  have  erred  and  strayed  from  thy  righteous  ways, 
have  left  undone  what  thy  word  requires,  and  often 
transgressed  thy  holy  laws,  cast  us  not  away  in  thy 
displeasure ;  but  sanctify  our  hearts,  and  work  in 
us  repentance  towards  thee,  and  faith  towards  the 
Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

May  we  engage,  O  Lord,  in  the  business  and  ac- 
tive duties  of  this  day  with  a  just  sense  of  thy 
overruling  providence,  knowing  that  except  the 
Lord  build  the  house  they  labor  in  vain  who  build 
it:  except  the  Lord  keep  the  city,  the  watchman 


76  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Friday  Evening. 

waketh  in  vain.  It  is  but  lost  labor  that  we  haste 
to  rise  up  early,  and  late  take  rest,  and  eat  the 
bread  of  carefulness :  without  thy  blessing  our  la- 
bor will  not  prosper.  Though  we  plant  and  water, 
thou  only  canst  give  increase.  Wilt  thou,  O  gra- 
cious Lord,  direct  and  bless  us  in  all  we  do.  Take 
us,  we  beseech  thee,  and  all  that  appertains  to  us, 
under  thy  guidance  and  protection.  Keep  us  ever 
mindful  of  thy  presence,  and  of  the  one  thing  need- 
ful. Prosper  us  in  the  business  of  our  several  sta- 
tions, and  give  us  grace  to  be  diligent  in  every 
duty. 

Give  thy  blessing  to  those  who  are  set  in  au- 
thority over  us ;  direct  their  counsels  and  strengthen 
their  hands.  May  we  remember  that  the  powers 
which  be  are  ordained  of  God,  and  that  they  bear 
not  the  sword  in  vain.  Bless  the  people  of  our 
country  with  union,  prosperity  and  peace.  Send 
down  thy  blessings  upon  our  neighbors,  relatives, 
and  friends.  May  they  who  are  dear  to  us  be 
dear  to  thee. 

These  things,  and  whatever  thou  seest  to  be  fitting 
for  us  and  for  all  men,  we  humbly  ask  in  the  name 
of  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


Friday  Evening. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everliving  God,  who  art  always 
more  ready  to  hear  than  we  to  pray,  and  art  wont 
to  give  more  than  we  desire  or  deserve,  pour  down 
upon  us  the  abundance  of  thy  mercy,  forgiving  our 
manifold  transgressions,  and  assisting  us  in  our 
supplications  and  prayers.  O  thou  God  of  mercy, 
absolve  us  from  our  offences  and  cleanse  us  from 
our  sins.  May  it  please  thee  to  give  us  true  repen- 
tance ;  to  forgive  us  all  our  sins,  negligences,  and 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  77 

Friday  Evening. 

ignorances,  and  to  endue  us  with  the  grace  of  thy 
Holy  Spirit  to  amend  our  lives  according  to  thy 
holy  word,  that  we  may  obtain  of  thee,  the  God  of 
all  mercy,  perfect  remission  and  forgiveness. 

To  thee,  O  Lord,  belong  mercy  and  forgiveness, 
though  we  have  rebelled  against  thee,  and  have  not 
obeyed  thy  voice,  to  walk  in  the  laws  which  thou 
hast  set  before  us.  Thou  art  glorious  in  holiness, 
fearful  in  praises,  doing  wonders ;  great  in  majesty, 
and  great  in  mercy.  Give  us  grace,  in  deep  contri- 
tion, each  one  for  himself,  to  say,  God  be  merciful 
to  me,  a  sinner. 

Gracious  is  thy  word,  declaring  that  there  is  no 
condemnation  to  those  who  are  in  Christ  Jesus; 
and  that  he  is  the  end  of  the  law  for  righteousness 
to  those  who  believe.  Grant  unto  us  that  righteous- 
ness which  is  by  faith  in  the  Son  of  God  ;  and  may 
thy  Spirit  bear  witness  with  our  spirit  that  we  are 
thy  children,  accepted  in  the  Beloved. 

We  thankfully  acknowledge  thy  goodness  in  the 
blessings  vouchsafed  to  us  during  the  day  past ;  in 
preserving  our  lives,  continuing  to  us  many  bles- 
sings, and  giving  us  time  and  means  for  knowing 
and  doing  thy  will.  Give  us,  we  beseech  thee,  a 
more  lively  sense  of  thy  benefits ;  awaken  us  to 
righteousness ;  turn  thou  us,  and  we  shall  be  turn- 
ed. Work  in  us  to  will  and  to  do  that  which  is 
pleasing  in  thy  sight.  May  we  put  on  the  whole 
armor  of  God  ;  fight  the  good  fight  of  faith,  and  be 
conquerors,  and  more  than  conquerors,  through  him 
who  loved  us  and  gave  himself  for  us.  While  thou 
art  pleased,  in  thy  patient  goodness,  to  hold  our 
soul  in  life,  give  us  grace  to  serve  thee  better  and 
love  thee  more.  Do  for  us,  we  beseech  thee,  and 
work  in  us  whatever  shall  be  necessary  and  con- 
venient for  our  present  comfort  and  our  eternal 
good.  Tuke  from  us  all  sinful  ignorance  and  hard- 
ness of  heart,  and  preserve  us  from  the  deceitful- 
7* 


78  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Saturday  Morning-. 

ness  of  worldly  things :  may  we  pass  the  time  of 
our  sojdurning  here  in  thy  faith  and  fear ;  and  live 
so  soberly,  righteously,  and  godly  in  this  present 
world,  as  becometh  those  who  expect  shortly  to 
give  an  account  to  thee,  who  wilt  judge  all  men  ac- 
cording to  their  works.  Make  us  a  household  fear- 
ing thee  and  working  righteousness. 

Hear  our  prayers  and  supplications  for  all  man- 
kind. Inspire,  continually,  the  universal  church 
with  the  spirit  of  truth,  unity,  and  concord ;  and 
grant  that  all  they  who  do  confess  thy  holy  name, 
may  agree  in  the  truth  of  thy  word,  and  live  in 
unity  and  godly  love.  May  those  in  authority  truly 
and  impartially  administer  justice ;  and  the  people 
perform  their  respective  duties,  in  all  godly  quiet- 
ness. Give  grace,  O  heavenly  Father,  to  all  bishops 
and  other  ministers,  that  they  may,  both  by  their 
life  and  doctrine,  set  forth  thy  true  and  lively  word, 
and  rightly  and  duly  administer  thy  holy  sacra- 
ments. And  grant  that  all  thy  people,  with  meek 
heart  and  due  reverence,  may  hear  and  receive  thy 
word,  and  truly  serve  thee  in  holiness  of  life.  Hear 
us,  O  Lord,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ.  And  to 
thee,  our  only  God  and  Savior,  be  glory  and  ma- 
jesty, dominion  and  power,  both  now  and  ever. 
Amen. 


Saturday  Morning. 

O  BLESSED  Lord,  who  hast  caused  all  Holy  Scrip- 
tures to  be  written  for  our  learning,  grant  that  we 
may  in  such  wise  hear  them,  read,  mark,  learn,  and 
inwardly  digest  them,  that  by  patience  and  comfort 
of  thy  holy  word,  we  may\  embrace  and  ever  hold 
fast  the  blessed  hope  of  everlasting  life.  Bless  to 
our  edification  all  that  we  4iead  and  hear  from  the 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  79 


Saturday  Morning. 


Holy  Scriptures  ;  may  it  be  so  grafted  irl  our  hearts 
as  to  bring  forth  in  us  the  fruit  of  good  -hating.  ^  % 

Thy  statutes,  O  Lord,  are  right,  and^«noiid  re- 
joice the  heart ;  thy  judgments  are  true  and  right- 
eous altogether.  By  them  are  thy  servants  taught, 
and  in  keeping  of  them  there  is  great  reward. 
Give -us  understanding,  that  we  may  keep  thy  law 
with  our  whole  heart.  Make  us  to  go  in  the  path 
of  thy  commandments,  and  to  have  a  delight  there- 
in. Enlighten  our  minds  with  the  truths  of  thy 
gospel  and  the  doctrines  of  life,  and  help  us  to  re- 
ceive with  meekness  the  ingrafted  word,  which  is 
able  to  save  our  souls. 

We  are  here  assembled,  O  Lord,  in  thy  name  and 
presence,  waiting  upon  thee  at  the  footstool  of  thy 
grace.  Cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our  hearts  by  the 
inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit :  blot  out  our  offences, 
and  wash  away  our  sins.  Who  can  tell  how  oft  he 
offendeth  ?  O  cleanse  thou  us  from  our  secret  faults. 
Keep  us  back,  also,  from  presumptuous  sins;  let 
them  not  have  dominion  over  us.  May  we  never 
so  presume  upon  thy  mercy  as  lightly  to  esteem 
the  riches  of  thy  goodness,  or  neglect  the  work  of 
our  salvation.  Knowing  that  the  righteous  are 
scarcely  saved,  may  we  give  all  diligence  to  make 
our  calling  and  election  sure.  Cause  us  to  be  hum- 
ble, and  devoutly  given  to  serve  thee  by  good 
works. 

Keep  alive  in  us  a  true  spirit  of  devotion,  that 
whi^e  we  draw  nigh  to  thee  with  our  lips,  our  heart 
may  not  be  far  frofn  thee.  Quicken  us  in  the  pur- 
suit of  spiritual  things.  May  we  never  be  so  cum- 
bered with  worldly  serving,  as  to  neglect  those 
things  which  are  truly  needful  to  our  eternal  good. 

Dispose  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  rightly  to 
discharge  the  duties  of  this  day.  Watch  over  our 
paths;  compass  us  about  with  thy  favor;  pre- 
serve us  in  our  going  out  and  coming  in ;  and 


80  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 


Saturday  Evening. 


direct  all  our  steps  in  the  way  of  thy  command- 
ments. In  all  our  dealings  may  we  be  honest  and 
conscientious;  diligent  in  the  works  of  our  calling; 
godly  in  our  conversation ;  meek  in  our  deport- 
ment; charitable  and  forgiving  towards  others; 
watchful  over  ourselves,  and  never  forgetful  of  thee. 
Sanctify  to  us  such  pains  and  sorrows,  and  other 
afflictions,  as  thou  mayest  see  it  fitting  to  lay  upon 
us  ;  make  us  patient  in  suffering,  and  in  all  things 
resigned  to  thy  holy  will. 

Make  us  diligent  in  using  all  the  means  of  grace. 
Give  us  ears  to  hear  the  truth  as  it  is  in  Jesus 
Christ,  and  hearts  to  be  doers  of  the  word,  and  not 
hearers  only.  May  we  be  faithful  in  searching  the 
Scriptures  ;  and  never  go  beyond  the  word  of  the 
Lord  our  God  to  do  less  or  more. 

May  we  abound  in  that  love  which  is  not  in  word 
and  tongue,  but  in  deed  and  truth  ;  and  show  forth 
thy  praise,  not  only  with  our  lips,  but  in  our  lives, 
by  letting  our  light  so  shine  before  men,  that  they 
may  see  our  good  works,  and  glorify  thee,  our  hea- 
venly Father.  And  when  we  shall  have  served 
thee  in  our  generation,  may  we  be  gathered  unto 
our  fathers,  having  the  testimony  of  a  good  con- 
science ;  in  communion  with  thy  church ;  in  the 
confidence  of  a  certain  faith ;  in  the  comfort  of  a 
reasonable,  religious,  and  holy  hope,  and  in  perfect 
charity  with  all  mankind.  We  ask  it,  O  heavenly 
Father,  through  the  merits  of  Jesus  Christ,  our 
blessed  Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


Saturday  Evening. 

O  GOD,  our  Father  who  art  in  heaven  ;  who  dost 
from  thy  throne  behold  all  that  dwell  upon  the 
earth,  and  hast  the  hearts  and  the  wants  of  all  thy 


GRIS WOLD'S    PRAYERS. 


Saturday  Evening. 


creatures  before  thee,  we,  the  most  unworthy  of 
them,  desire,  this  evening,  to  come  before  thee  in 
prayer  and  supplication.  But  wherewith  shall  we 
come  before  thee,  O  Lord,  or  bow  ourselves  in  thy 
presence,  O  thou  Most  High  1  We  would  come  in 
the  only  prevailing  name  of  thy  blessed  Son,  in 
whom  thou  hast  declared  thyself  well  pleased.  In 
the  plenitude  of  thy  mercy,  thou  hast  sent  him  into 
the  world,  not  to  condemn  the  world,  but  to  save  it, 
and  hast  made  him  unto  us  wisdom  and  righteous- 
ness, and  sanctification  and  redemption.  In  his 
name,  O  thou  Father  of  our  spirits,  and  trusting  in 
his  merits,  do  we  present  ourselves  before  thee,  be- 
seeching thee  to  have  respect  unto  the  prayer  of  thy 
servants.  Hear  thou  in  heaven,  thy  dwelling-place, 
and  when  thou  hearest,  for  Christ's  sake,  forgive. 

Assist  us  mercifully,  O  Lord,  in  these  our  sup- 
plications and  prayers,  that  we  may  approach  thee 
with  reverence,  and  obtain  our  requests.  Dispose 
our  hearts  and  direct  our  ways  towards  the  attain- 
ment of  everlasting  salvation.  In  all  the  changes, 
temptations,  and  other  trials  of  this  mortal  state, 
may  we  ever  be  defended  by  thy  most  gracious  and 
ready  help.  May  we  be  of  the  number  of  thy  pe- 
culiar people,  zealous  of  good  works,  doing  justly, 
loving  mercy,  walking  humbly  with  thee,  and 
adorning  the  doctrine  of  God  our  Savior  in  all 
things. 

Make  us  thankful,  O  God,  for  all  the  blessings 
which  we  enjoy,  both  temporal  and  spiritual.  Help 
us  to  discern  the  hand  of  thy  providence  in  all  that 
befalls  us.  In  prosperity  and  adversity  ;  whether 
we  abound  or  suffer  need;  may  we  never  forget 
that  the  Lord  rules ;  that  thou  art  righteous  in  all 
thy  ways,  and  good  to  all  thy  creatures. 

We  desire  of  thee,  O  Lord  God,  our  heavenly 
Father,  who  art  the  Giver  of  all  goodness,  to  send 
thy  grace  unto  us  and  to  all  people,  that  we  may 
F 


82  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Saturday  Evening. 

worship  thee,  serve  thee,  and  obey  thee  as  we  ought 
to  do.  And  we  beseech  thee  to  send  us  all  things 
that  are  needful,  both  for  our  souls  and  bodies  :  and 
that  thou  wilt  be  merciful  unto  us,  and  forgive  us 
our  sins  ;  and  be  pleased  to  save  and  defend  us  in 
all  dangers,  both  of  soul  and  body  :  and  that  thou 
wilt  keep  us  from  all  sin  and  wickedness,  from  our 
spiritual  enemies,  and  from  everlasting  death. 

During  the  week  which  is  now  near  its  close, 
many  of  our  fellow-men  have  departed  this  life,  and 
entered  into  their  eternal  state:  we  yet  survive, 
monuments  of  thy  forbearing  mercy.  While  our 
life  is  continued,  may  we  live  to  thee.  Prepare  us 
for  the  duties,  and  for  the  right  observance  of  the 
Lord's  day  which  is  approaching,  that  we  may 
sanctify  it  as  holy  unto  thee,  and  a  season  sacred 
to  thy  worship.  Be  with  the  assemblies  of  thy 
worshipping  people ;  meet  them  in  mercy,  and  visit 
them  with  thy  salvation.  May  all  who  seek  thee 
be  joyful  and  glad  in  thee.  and  find  by  happy  ex- 
perience, that  one  day  in  thy  courts  is  better  than  a 
thousand  spent  in  vanity  and  sin. 

May  the  close  of  each  day  remind  us  of  that 
night  near  at  hand,  in  which  no  man  can  work  ; 
and  stimulate  us  to  do,  with  all  our  might,  what 
thou  hast  appointed  our  hand  to  do.  Protect  us,  O 
Lord,  this  night,  that  no  evil  may  befall  us,  nor 
plague  come  nigh  our  dwelling ;  watch  over  us  for 
good,  and  keep  us  in  safety.  May  we  go  to  our 
rest  in  charity  with  all  men  ;  and  may  we  rise  re- 
freshed, disposed  and  strengthened  to  do  thy  will. 
We  ask  this  for  Christ's  sake.  And  unto  thee,  O 
God,  who  art  able  to  do  for  us  abundantly  more 
than  we  can  ask  or  think,  be  glory  in  the  church, 
by  Jesus  Christ,  throughout  all  ages,  world  without 
end.  Amen.  * 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  83 

Second  Week.     Sunday  Morning. 


Second  Week.     Sunday  Morning. 

O  LORD  God>  who  art  glorious  in  holiness  and 
power,  and  whose  goodness  is  infinite,  thou  art 
worthy  of  all  adoration  and  praise.  The  heavens 
and  the  earth  are  full  of  the  majesty  of  thy  glory. 
The  holy  church  throughout  all  the  world  doth  ac- 
knowledge thee  as  the  Father  of  our  spirits,  the 
Redeemer  of  the  world,  and  the  Sanctifier  of  the 
faithful.  And  with  thy  saints  on  earth,  and  with 
all  the  company  of  heaven,  we  would  laud  and 
magnify  thy  glorious  name. 

Wonderful  art  thou,  O  God,  in  thy  adorable  per- 
fections. When  we  consider  the  heavens,  the  works 
of  thy  fingers, — the  moon  and  the  stars,  which  thou 
hast  ordained,  what  is  man,  that  thou  art  mindful 
of  him  !  or  the  sons  of  men,  that  thou  visitest  them 
with  unnumbered  mercies  !  We  are  vile  and  sin- 
ful ;  it  is  of  thy  mercy  that  we  are  not  consumed  ; 
that  our  lives,  unprofitable  to  thee,  are  continued 
from  day  to  day,  and  from  one  week  to  another. 

We  thank  thee,  O  God,  for  the  comforts  continu- 
ally bestowed  upon  us,  thy  unworthy  creatures : 
and  chiefly  for  thy  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ.  We 
bless  thy  holy  name  that  thou  didst  so  love  the 
world  as  to  give  thine  only  begotten  Son,  that  who- 
soever believeth  in  him  should  not  perish,  but  have 
everlasting  life.  We  bless  thee  for  the  means  and 
ordinances  which  are  mercifully  appointed  for  our 
benefit,  as  the  channels  of  thy  grace,  and  for  build- 
ing us  up  in  a  holy  religious  faith. 

Make  us  duly  thankful  that  the  Son  of  man  is 
Lord  of  the  Sabbath,  and  that  we  are  brought  to  see 
again  its  weekly  return.  This  is  the  day  which 
the  Lord  hath  made,  which  he  hath  sanctified  to 
himself,  by  rising  from  the  dead :  may  we  rejoice 


84  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  week.     Sunday  Morning. 

and  be  glad  in  it.     Save  us  now,  O  Lord,  we  be- 
seech thee ;  send  us  now  prosperity. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  mercifully  to  direct  and 
aid  us  in  all  the  duties  suitable  to  this  day,  accord- 
ing to  thy  gracious  purpose  in  its  appointment. 
May  thy  Spirit  be  with  all  who  unite  in  thy  holy 
worship.  Sanctify  their  affections  and  help  them 
to  withdraw  their  thoughts  from  worldly  cares,  to 
hold  their  Conversation  in  heaven,  and  to  worship 
thee  in  spirit  and  in  truth.  May  the  power  of  god- 
liness possess  their  hearts.  Make  us  sensible,  O 
Lord,  how  great  are  the  privileges  of  thy  sanctuary : 
how  blessed  it  is  to  enter  into  thy  gates  with  thanks- 
giving, and  into  thy  courts  with  praise;  to  fall 
down  and  kneel  before  the  Lord  our  Maker. 

We  beseech  thee  of  thy  compassionate  goodness 
to  pity  those  who,  by  sickness  or  other  causes,  are 
deprived  of  the  privilege  of  uniting  with  thy  people 
in  thy  house  of  prayer.  May  they  consider  that 
thy  gracious  presence  is  not  confined  to  temples 
made  with  hands :  that  the  hearts  and  the  wants 
of  thy  creatures  are  all  before  thee,  and  that  thy 
mercy  is  over  all  thy  works.  Help  them,  in  faith 
and  hope,  to  raise  their  souls  in  prayer  and  praise 
to  thee.  Comfort  them  with  a  sense  of  thy  good- 
ness, and  give  them  peace. 

Let  thy  Spirit,  O  Lord,  be  with  those  of  us  who 
shall  be  permitted  this  day  to  meet  with  thy  people 
in  the  place  of  thy  public  worship.  Fill  our  hearts 
with  seriousness  and  devout  affections,  and  make 
us  attentive  to  the  duties  of  thy  house.  Give  us, 
we  entreat  thee,  repentance  unto  life,  and  make  us 
joyful  in  thy  house  of  prayer.  Dispose  us,  in  an 
honest  and  good  heart,  to  hear  the  gospel  of  our  Sa- 
vior Christ,  and  to  receive  the  words  of  eternal  life. 
Wilt  thou,  O  gracious  Lord,  accompany  thy  word 
with  power,  and  adapt  it  to  the  wants  of  all  who 
hear  it.  May  sinners  be  awakened  to  righteous- 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  85 

Second  Week.     Sunday  Morning. 

ness  and  flee  from  the  wrath  to  come.  May  they 
seek  thee  while  thou  mayst  be  found  and  call  upon 
thee  while  thou  art  near.  May  the  wicked  forsake 
his  way,  and  the  unrighteous  man  his  thoughts. 
Alarm  the  careless ;  comfort  and  help  the  weak- 
hearted,  and  reclaim  those  who  have  erred  from  the 
paths  of  truth.  May  we  never  be  forgetful  hearers, 
but  doers  of  thy  work,  manifesting  in  our  lives  that 
we  are  the  disciples  of  Jesus  Christ.  May  we  know 
him  and  the  power  of  his  resurrection :  as  he  was 
raised  up  by  the  glory  of  the  Father,  may  we  also 
walk  in  newness  of  life. 

Make  us  duly  thankful  for  the  Holy  Scriptures 
written  for  our  learning,  and  for  the  religious  privi- 
leges, and  all  the  means  of  knowledge  and  grace 
which  we  enjoy.  Help  us,  O  Lord,  so  to  estimate 
and  to  use  these  blessings,  that  we  may  become 
wise  unto  salvation.  May  we  remember  the  Lord's 
day  to  keep  it  holy,  and  have  grace  to  profit  in  the 
religion  of  our  Savior,  Christ. 

Look,  we  beseech  thee,  with  thy  favor  and 
blessing  upon  all  Sunday  schools,  and  upon  that 
especially  with  which  we  are  more  particularly 
connected.  Give  thy  blessing  to  the  teachers  who 
are  occupied  in  this  labor  of  love,  and  remember 
them  for  good.  Bless  the  children  and  youth  who 
attend  upon  their  instruction.  Help  them  to  receive 
in  their  hearts  and  to  evince  in  their  lives  the  pre- 
cepts of  thy  word,  and  the  principles  of  the  doc- 
trines of  Christ.  Oper|  their  understandings,  and 
incline  their  ear  unto  thy  testimonies.  Graft  in 
their  tender  minds  a  religious  faith  and  a  godly  fear, 
and  nourish  them  with  the  doctrines  of  life.  Help 
them  so  to  proceed  in  all  virtue  and  godliness  of 
living,  that  finally  they  may  be  inheritors  of  thine 
everlasting  kingdom. 

Assist  us,  O  Lord,  with  thy  heavenly  grace ;  di- 
rect our  hearts  and  dispose  our  ways  to  the  attain- 

8 


GUIS  WOLD'S    PRAYERS. 


Second  Week.     Sunday  Evening. 


ment  of  everlasting  salvation ;  and  in  all  the  pains 
and  perils  of  this  mortal  life,  may  we  ever  be 
defended  by  thy  most  gracious  and  ready  help, 
through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 


Second  Week.    Sunday  Evening. 

ALMIGHTY  and  most  merciful  Father,  we  desire 
once  more  to  bow  before  thee,  with  reverence  and 
humility,  and  with  a  thankful  sense  of  thy  good- 
ness. It  is  a  good  thing  to  give  thanks  unto  thee, 
O  Lord,  and  to  praise  thy  name  ;  to  show  forth  thy 
loving  kindness  in  the  morning,  and  thy  faithful- 
ness in  the  night  season.  A  pleasant  thing  it  is  to 
be  thankful  for  thy  mercies ;  to  acknowledge  thy 
goodness,  and  to  adore  thy  perfections.  How  mani- 
fold are  thy  works;  in  wisdom  hast  thou  made 
them  all.  The  heavens  declare  thy  glory,  and  the 
firmament  showeth  thy  handy  work.  Thou  hast 
appointed  the  moon  for  certain  seasons,  and  the  sun 
knoweth  his  going  down.  Day  unto  day  uttereth 
speech,  and  night  unto  night  showeth  knowledge. 

But  far  surpassing  all  the  glory  of  the  starry  hea- 
vens is  the  Sun  of  Righteousness,  who  hath  risen 
upon  this  sinful  world  with  healing  in  his  wings. 
We  adore  thee  for  the  gift  of  a  divine  Savior ;  that 
thou,  who  didst  command  the  light  to  shine  out  of 
darkness,  hast  shined  in  the"hearts  of  thy  people,  to 
give  the  light  of  the  knowledge  of  the  glory  of  God, 
in  the  face  of  Jesus  Christ.  Grant  that  we  may 
walk  as  the  children  of  light,  and  while  it  is  called 
to-day,  before  that  night  cometh  in  which  no  man 
can  work. 

Sanctify  to  us  all  the  means  of  grace,  and  espe- 
cially thy  appointment  of  a  holy  day  of  rest.  Make 


GRISW OLD'S  PRAYERS.  87 

"  Second  Week.     Sunday  Evening.  " 

us  duly  thankful  that  we  have  been  favored  again 
with  its  weekly  return,  and  sensible  that  one  day 
in  thy  courts  is  better  than  a  thousand  spent  in 
vanity  and  sin.  Help  us  to  profit  in  seasons  of 
grace.  May  we  not  be  of  those  who  are  ever  learn- 
ing, and  never  able  to  come  to  the  knowledge  of  the 
truth ;  but  receive  with  meekness  and  with  joy  the 
ingrafted  word,  which  is  able  to  save  the  soul. 

Enter  not  into  judgment  with  thy  servants,  O 
Lord  ;  but  in  mercy  pardon  our  neglect  of  thy  word, 
and  our  having  profited  so  little  by  Sabbaths  and 
ordinances  and  other  means  and  blessings.  Awaken 
in  our  minds  a  lively  sense  of  thy  goodness,  and 
grant  that  we  may  ever  hereafter  serve  and  please 
thee  in  newness  of  life. 

Give  us  hearts,  O  Lord,  to  pity  and  to  pray  for 
those  who  need  the  blessings  which  we  possess. 
Extend  the  light  of  the  gospel  and  the  saving  truths 
of  thy  word  to  all  the  families  of  the  earth.  Be 
merciful  to  those  who  are  still  sitting  in  darkness 
and  the  shadow  of  death.  Send,  we  beseech  thee, 
O  gracious  Lord,  send  laborers  into  that  great  har- 
vest, the  heathen  world.  If  thou  speak  the  word 
great  will  be  the  company  of  the  preachers.  At 
thy  command  let  their  sound  go  out  into  all  the 
earth,  and  their  words  unto  the  ends  of  the  world. 
O  may  thy  kingdom  come  with  power,  and  truth 
and  righteousness  increase,  till  thy  will  shall  be 
done  on  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven. 

And  grant  that  the  kingdom  of  God  may  be  with- 
in us ;  that  the  word  of  Christ  may  dwell  in  us 
richly,  in  all  wisdom.  May  thy  Spirit  convince 
us  of  sin,  of  righteousness,  and  of  judgment,  and 
excite  us  to  diligence,  watchfulness,  and  prayer. 
May  that  mind  be  in  us,  which  was  also  in  Jesus 
Christ,  that  it  may  be  our  meat  and  drink  to  do  thy 
will,  and  that  we  may  love  one  another,  as  he  has 
given  us  commandment.  May  the  fruits  of  the  Spirit 


88  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Sunday  Evening. 

so  appear  and  abound  in  us,  that  we  may  adorn  the 
doctrine  of  God  our  Savior  in  all  things.  Grant, 
O  Lord,  that  the  prayers  which  have  been,  during 
this  day,  offered  unto  thee  may  be  graciously  heard. 
What  prayer  and  supplication  soever  has  been 
made  by  any  man  or  by  all  thy  people,  hear  thou 
in  heaven  thy  dwelling-place,  and  forgive,  and  do 
and  give  to  every  man  according  to  his  ways  and 
his  need ;  for  thou,  O  Lord,  knowest  the  hearts  and 
the  wants  of  all  the  children  of  men.  And  grant, 
O  Lord,  that  thy  word,  which  has  been  read  and 
preached  this  day,  may  be  a  savor  of  life  to  those 
who  have  heard  it.  May  they  not  be  forgetful 
hearers,  but  look  into  the  perfect  law  of  liberty,  and 
so  faithfully  continue  therein,  that  they  may  be 
blest  in  their  deed.  Gracious  art  thou,  O  Lord,  and 
long-suffering :  all  day  long  dost  thou  stretch  out 
thy  hand  unto  a  disobedient  and  gainsaying  people. 
O  let  not  the  means  of  knowledge  and  of  grace 
which  we  receive  rise  up  in  judgment  and  condemn 
us.  While  we  call  thee  Lord,  may  we  do  the  things 
which  thou  commandest,  and  daily  grow  in  grace 
and  in  the  knowledge  and  love  of  God. 

And  wilt  thou  bless  to  our  edification  all  the  reli- 
gious privileges  which  we  have  this  day  enjoyed.  O 
may  thy  counsels  and  thy  precepts,  and  the  reve- 
lations of  thy  mercy,  take  root  in  our  hearts  and  be 
fruitful  in  our  lives.  May  we  never  neglect  the 
great  salvation  which  thy  gospel  brings  to  our  ears. 
While  our  lives,  through  thy  goodness,  shall  be 
prolonged,  may  we  live  to  thee.  Take  us  and  ours, 
O  heavenly  Father,  under  thy  care  and  keeping, 
and  fit  and  prepare  us,  we  humbly  beseech  thee, 
for  that  eternal  Sabbath  and  heavenly  rest  which 
remains  for  the  people  of  God.  May  every  passing 
day  and  week  bring  us  nearer  to  those  everlasting 
joys  which  thou  hast  promised  to  those  who  love 
thee.  Keep  us  this  night,  both  outwardly  in  oui 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 


Second  Week.     Monday  Morning. 


bodies,  and  inwardly  in  our  souls  ;  preserve  us  from 
all  adversities  and  evil  thoughts,  and  grant  that  we 
may  rise  refreshed,  and  be  strengthened  and  dispos- 
ed to  do  thy  will,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord 
and  Savior.  Amen, 


Second  Week.    Monday  Morning. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  who  dost  govern 
all  things  in  heaven  and  on  earth,  mercifully  hear 
our  supplications  and  prayers.  Make  us  truly  sen- 
sible of  our  wants  and  of  thy  goodness,  and  may 
thy  Spirit  help  our  infirmities  and  make  intercession 
for  us.  Grant  us,  we  beseech  thee,  the  spirit  to 
think  and  to  do  always  such  things  as  are  right, 
that  we,  who  cannot  do  any  thing  good  without 
thee,  may,  by  thy  aid,  be  enabled  to  live  according 
to  thy  will. 

We  would  draw  nigh,  in  full  assurance  of  faith, 
unto  thee,  who  hast  graciously  promised  that  they 
who  ask  through  faith  in  Christ  shall  receive ;  that 
they  who  seek  shall  find.  We  approach  thy  gra- 
cious throne,  not  trusting  in  our  own  righteousness, 
but  in  thy  manifold  and  great  mercies,  beseech- 
ing thee  to  behold  us  in  love,  not  weighing  our  me- 
rits, but  pardoning  our  offences.  We  approach  thee 
in  the  name  of  our  High  Priest,  who  gave  'himself 
a  sacrifice  for  our  sins. 

If  thou  shouldst  mark  iniquities,  O  Lord,  who 
should  stand  ?  but  there  is  mercy  with  thee,  that 
thou  mayest  be  feared,  and  with  thee  is  plenteous 
redemption.  We  beseech  thee  to  wash  us  from  our 
iniquity,  and  cleanse  us  from  our  sin.  Enter  not 
into  judgment  with  thy  sinful  creatures;  for  in  thy 
sight  shall  no  man  living  be  justified.  Being  justi- 
8* 


90  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Monday  Morning. 

fied  by  faith,  may  we  have  peace  with  thee  our  God, 
through  Jesus  Christ. 

We  acknowledge,  O  Lord,  that  of  ourselves  we 
are  not  able  to  walk  according  to  thy  will ;  that  from 
thee  all  holy  desires,  good  counsels,  and  just  works 
proceed.  Grant  us  the  constant  assistance  of  thy 
Holy  Spirit,  that  we  may  please  thee  both  in  will 
and  deed.  May  we  ever  be  found  in  the  way  of 
duty,  fearing  God  and  working  righteousness.  O 
may  thy  truth  shine  in  our  hearts  and  give  us  the 
light  of  the  knowledge  of  thy  glory,  in  the  face  of 
Jesus  Christ.  Whatever  may  be  our  state  or  occu- 
pation, help  us  to  walk  in  the  way  of  thy  com- 
mandments, and  preserve  us  from  all  sinful  affec- 
tion for  worldly  things.  Strengthen  us  with  might 
by  thy  Spirit :  raise  our  hearts  and  desires  to  hea- 
venly things,  and  dispose  all  our  ways  towards  the 
attainment  of  everlasting  salvation.  In  all  the 
changing  scenes  and  the  various  perils  of  this  mor- 
tal life,  may  we  put  our  whole  trust  in  thy  provi- 
dential care. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to  keep  constantly  in 
our  minds  a  lively  remembrance  of  thy  mercy  to 
us  in  Jesus  Christ,  who  came  into  this  world  to  seek 
and  to  save  that  which  was  lost ;  who  made  him- 
self of  no  reputation,  took  upon  him  the  form  of  a 
servant,  and  became  obedient  unto  death,  to  obtain 
for  us  eternal  life.  Make  us  humble  after  the  ex- 
ample ,  jof  his  humility.  May  the  spirit  of  love 
which  was  in  him  be  also  in  us.  May  we  die  to 
sin  and  rise  again  unto  righteousness,  continually 
mortifying  all  our  evil  and  corrupt  affections,  and 
daily  proceeding  in  all  virtue  and  godliness  of 
living.  >  9«>fij  ?•  <- 

And  wilt  thou,  O  Lord,  receive  our  supplications 
and  prayers  for  all  for  whom  we  ought  to  pray. 
Bless  our  rulers  and  magistrates,  giving  them  grace 
to  execute  justice  and  to  maintain  truth.  We 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  91 

Second  Week.     Monday  Morning. 

pray  for  those  who  are  visited  with  sorrows,  and 
all  who  are  afflicted  in  mind,  body,  or  estate,  be- 
seeching thee  to  comfort  and  relieve  them,  accord- 
ing as  they  have  need.  May  it  please  thee  to  pre- 
serve all  who  travel  by  land  or  by  water :  may  thy 
presence  be  with  them  to  shield  them  from  danger 
and  all  manner  of  evil.  Be  thou  in  all  things  their 
conductor  and  guide,  making  their  way  prosperous 
and  their  business  successful. 

We  ask  thy  blessing  upon  our  neighbors,  rela- 
tives, and  friends,  and  for  those  especially  who  de- 
sire our  prayers.  Do  thou,  the  God  of  all  mercy 
and  grace,  who  knowest  what  they  desire  and  what 
they  need,  do  for  them,  and  work  in  them  whatever 
is  best  for  their  present  comfort  and  for  their  final 
good.  Help  us,  O  Lord,  to  love  and  to  do  good 
unto  all  men,  and  especially  may  we  love  those 
who  love  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  for  his  sake 
delight  in  doing  them  good. 

Give  us  hearts  to  sympathize  in  the  joys  and  the 
sorrows  of  our  brethren, — to  weep  with  them  who 
weep  and  to  rejoice  with  those  who  rejoice.  May 
we  feel  compassion  for  all  who  need  the  blessings 
which  we  enjoy.  Though  silver  and  gold  we  have 
none,  such  as  we  have,  our  prayers,  and  sympathy, 
and  love,  may  we  gladly  give.  Wilt  thou,  O  mer- 
ciful God,  succor,  bless,  and  comfort  all  who  are 
in  danger,  necessity,  and  tribulation.  May  they 
who  are  visited  with  sorrow  despise  not  thy  chas- 
tening, nor  faint  under  thy  rebuke ;  may  their 
affliction,  through  thy  blessing,  work  in  them  a  far 
more  exceeding  and  eternal  weight  of  glory. 

Let  thy  grace,  O  Lord,  and  thy  blessing  be  with 
us  through  the  day  on  which  we  have  entered. 
Preserve  us  from -sin  and  from  all  manner  of  dan- 
ger. Vouchsafe,  we  beseech  thee,  to  direct,  sanc- 
tify, and  govern,  both  our  hearts  and  bodies,  in  the 
ways  of  thy  laws,  and  in  the  works  of  thy  com- 
mandments, that,  through  thy  most  mighty  protec- 


92 


GRISWOLD'S 


Second  Week.     Monday  Evening. 


tion,  we  may  be  preserved  in  body  and  soul  through 
our  Lord  and  Savior  Jesus  Christ.     Amen. 


Second  Week.    Monday  Evening. 

ALMIGHTY  and  immortal  God,  the  aid  of  all  who 
need,  and  the  helper  of  all  who  flee  to  thee  for  suc- 
cor, let  thy  merciful  ears  be  open  to  us,  thy  un- 
worthy creatures,  and  hearken  to  the  supplications 
which  we  would  offer  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ. 
May  we  come  unto  thee  duly  sensible  of  our  un- 
worthiness,  relying  on  his  merits  for  pardon  and 
acceptance.     We  have  erred  and  strayed  from  thy 
righteous  ways :  we  have  followed  too  much  the 
evil   devices  and  desires  of  our  own  hearts,  and 
have  often  offended  against  thy  holy  laws.     Thou 
hast  taught  us,  O  heavenly  Father,  that  when  the 
wicked  man   turneth   away  from  his  wickedness 
that  he  hath  committed  and  doeth  that  which  is 
lawful  and  right,  he  shall  save  his  soul  alive.    Help 
us,  O  Lord,  to  turn  from  our  evil  ways,  and  to  do 
all  those  good  works  which  thou  hast  ordained  that 
thy  people  should  walk  in  them.     Hide  thy  face 
from  our  sins  and  blot  out  all  our  iniquities.     The 
sacrifices  acceptable  to  thee,  our  God,  are  a  broken 
spirit ;  a  contrite  heart  thou  wilt  not  despise.     O 
make  us  truly  contrite,  and  grant  us  repentance 
unto  life.     Give  us  grace  to  resist  temptation,  and 
to  mortify  every  evil  desire.     Cleanse  the  thoughts 
of  our  hearts,  by  the  inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit. 
Give  us  hearts,  O  Lord,  to  be  thankful  for  thy 
manifold  goodness  to  us  and  to  all  men.     Make  us 
thankful  that  we  live  in  a  land  where   thou  art 
known  and  worshipped :  that  the  gospel  of  salva- 
tion in  Jesus  Christ  is  taught  amongst  us,  and  that 
we  have  the  great  privilege  of  searching  the  Scrip- 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  93 

Second  Week.     Monday  Evening. 

tures,  and  knowing  the  certainty  of  those  things 
wherein  we  have  been  instructed.  We  thank  thee, 
O  God,  for  the  ordinances  of  religion,  for  the  means 
of  grace,  and  for  all  the  privileges  of  thy  sanctuary. 
Give  us  grace,  we  beseech  thee,  so  to  use  them,  that 
we  may  be  truly  members  of  Christ,  children  of 
God,  and  inheritors  of  thy  heavenly  kingdom.  Give 
us  the  comforting  assurance  of  thy  favor  and  good- 
ness towards  us ;  that  we  are  members  incorporate 
in  the  mystical  body  of  thy  Son,  which  is  the  blessed 
company  of  all  faithful  people,  and  are  also  heirs 
through  hope  of  thy  everlasting  kingdom,  by  the 
merits  of  the  most  precious  death  and  passion  of 
thy  dear  Son.  And  we  humbly  beseech  thee,  O 
heavenly  Father,  so  to  assist  us  with  thy  grace, 
that  we  may  continue  in  that  holy  fellowship,  and 
ever  live  to  thy  glory  and  praise. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to  raise  our  hopes  and 
our  desires  above  the  things  of  time  and  sense,  to 
the  high  and  holy  place  where  the  Lord  our  Sa- 
vior reigns.  By  patient  continuance  in  well  doing, 
may  we  seek  for  honor,  glory,  and  immortality  in 
the  world  to  come.  Give  us  that  faith  which  is  the 
substance  of  things  hoped  for  and  the  evidence  of 
things  not  seen.  Increase  in  us  faith,  and  hope, 
and  charity ;  and  that  we  may  obtain  what  thou 
dost  promise,  make  us  to  love  that  which  thou 
dost  command.  Grant  us  the  influence  of  thy  Spi- 
rit, to  convince  us  of  sin,  to  awaken  us  to  right- 
eousness, and  fit  us  to  enjoy  thy  presence  in  thy 
heavenly  kingdom.  Put  away  from  us  all  hurtful 
things,  and  give  us  those  which  are  profitable. 

Grant  that  we  may  be  diligent  and  faithful  in 
searching  the  Scriptures.  Open  our  understand- 
ing, that  we  may  know  and  receive  what  they 
testify  of  Christ,  and  dispose  us  to  hear  and  receive 
the  doctrines  of  eternal  life. 

Grant  that  we  may  do  all  in  our  power  to  ex- 


94  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Monday  Evening. 

tend  the  knowledge  of  Christ  and  the  means  of 
grace,  and  to  promote  the  practice  of  pure  and  un- 
defiled  religion.  And  chiefly  may  we  do  it  by  our 
own  good  example,  and  by  living  a  life  of  faith  in 
the  Son  of  God.  May  the  truth,  and  power,  and 
excellency  of  the  gospel  be  in  our  life  and  conduct 
so  displayed,  that  they  who  see  it  may  glorify  thee, 
and  the  ignorance  of  foolish  men  be  put  to  silence. 
Enlighten  our  minds,  increase  our  faith,  elevate  our 
hopes,  and  so  awaken  our  zeal,  that  we  may  run 
and  not  be  weary.  May  we  never  dishonor  the  re- 
ligion of  Christ,  nor  put  a  stumbling-block  in  the 
way  of  others,  but  be  holy  in  all  manner  of  conver- 
sation, and  show  forth  thy  truth  and  thy  goodness, 
both  with  our  lips  and  in  our  lives. 

Make  us  continually  sensible  that  we  are  stew- 
ards of  the  good  things  committed  to  our  care,  and 
are  accountable  to  thee  for  the  use  we  make  of 
them.  O  may  we  never  be  unjust  stewards,  nor 
bury  thy  talent  in  the  earth.  Preserve  us,  we  be- 
seech thee,  from  idleness;  may  we  be  profitably 
employed  in  what  is  useful  to  ourselves  or  others ; 
not  slothful  in  business,  but  fervent  in  spirit,  serv- 
ing the  Lord  and  redeeming  the  time. 

And  we  now,  O  Lord,  would  commit  ourselves 
and  all  that  concerns  us  into  thy  hands.  Defend 
us,  while  we  sleep,  from  every  evil  to  which  we 
may  be  exposed.  Shouldst  thou  call  us  hence  this 
night,  may  it  be  to  thyself  in  a  better  world.  If 
thou  shalt  mercifully  preserve  us  till  the  morning 
light,  may  we  rise  with  thankful  hearts,  and  devote 
to  thee  the  life  thou  givest.  We  ask  these  favors 
in  the  name  and  through  the  merits  of  our  blessed 
Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  95 

Second  Week.     Tuesday  Morning. 


Second  Week.    Tuesday  Morning. 

O  HOLY,  just,  and  merciful  God,  who  art  always 
more  ready  to  hear  than  men  to  pray,  look  down, 
we  beseech  thee,  with  thy  favor  and  blessing  upon 
us,  thy  dependent  creatures,  and  accept  the  renewal 
of  our  morning  sacrifice  of  praise  and  prayer.  Won- 
derful art  thou,  O  Lord,  in  goodness,  and  patience, 
and  long-suffering.  Impress  upon  our  minds  a  just 
and  lively  sense  of  thy  mercies  to  us  and  to  all  the 
children  of  men. 

We  thank  thee,  O  heavenly  Father,  that  our 
lives  are  still  preserved ;  that  we  were  kept  in  safety 
through  the  silent  watches  of  the  night  past;  and 
that  we  are  brought,  encompassed  with  many  bles- 
sings, to  see  the  light  of  another  day,  and  are  per- 
mitted again  to  lift  our  hearts  and  voice  to  thee,  in 
humble  adoration.  We  thank  thee  for  all  thy  favors 
of  providence  and  grace,  sensible  that  all  our  en- 
joyments are  the  fruits  of  thy  bounty.  And  chiefly, 
O  Lord,  do  we  desire,  with  thankful  adoration,  to 
bless  thy  name,  that  thou  hast  so  loved  the  world, 
as  to  send  into  it  thy  only  Son  to  be  our  Sa- 
vior, and  hast  graciously  promised  that  they  who 
come  unto  thee,  through  faith  in  him,  shall  not 
perish  in  their  sins,  but  have  eternal  life.  We 
thank  thee  that  our  lot  is  fallen  in  a  Christian 
land ;  that  the  Holy  Scriptures,  containing  the  reve- 
lation of  thy  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ,  are  in  our 
hands  ;  that  the  gospel  is  preached  in  our  ears,  and 
that  means,  and  ordinances,  and  opportunities  are 
still  given,  to  instruct  us  in  righteousness,  and  to 
build  us  up  in  thy  holy  faith. 

Give  us  grace,  we  beseech  thee,  to  be  duly  thank- 
ful for  these  and  for  all  thy  mercies,  and  to  show 
forth  our  thankfulness  by  making  a  right  use  of 


96  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Tuesday  Morning. 

them.  Open  our  minds  that  we  may  understand 
the  doctrines  of  Christ,  and  the  duty  of  Christians. 
Do  thou,  who  alone  canst  change  the  hearts  and 
govern  the  affections  of  sinful  men,  create  and 
make  in  us  new  and  contrite  hearts ;  sanctify  our 
affections  and  our  desires,  and  direct  all  our  ways 
towards  the  attainment  of  everlasting  salvation. 
Preserve  us  from  self-righteousness,  and  pride,  and 
from  envy,  hatred  and  malice,  and  all  uncharita- 
bleness.  Purify  our  hearts  by  the  indwelling  of  thy 
Spirit,  and  work  in  us  to  will  and  to  do  whatever 
will  promote  thy  glory,  and  our  own  and  others' 
salvation.  Give  us  that  repentance  which  is  not  to 
be  repented  of,  and  that  faith  which  renews  the 
heart,  worketh  by  love,  and  overcometh  the  world ; 
and  grant  that  we  may  so  pass  through  the  changes 
and  perils  of  this  world  that  we  may  finally  attain 
to  everlasting  life. 

And  we  beseech  thee  to  extend  thy  mercy  to  all 
mankind.  May  they  who  are  now  living  in  sin  be 
awakened  to  righteousness,  and  in  a  time  accepted 
turn  to  thee,  with  penitence  and  prayer.  O  may 
they  not  perish  in  unbelief,  but  seek  thee  while 
thou  mayest  be  found,  and  call  upon  thee  while 
thou  art  near.  Make  with  them,  O  blessed  Lord, 
an  everlasting  covenant,  even  the  sure  mercies  of 
David.  Hasten  the  time  when  the  light  of  the  gos- 
pel shall  shine  in  the  darkest  places  of  the  earth ; 
when  all  nations  shall  bow  down  before  thee,  and 
the  heathen  become  thine  inheritance. 

Be  merciful,  O  Lord,  to  those  humble,  penitent 
souls,  whom  thy  Spirit  has  convinced  of  sin,  and 
of  judgment,  and  who  are  inquiring  what  they 
must  do  to  be  saved.  Wilt  thou  convince  them  of 
righteousness,  and  reveal  to  their  souls  the  comforts 
of  thy  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ,  that  they  may  go  for- 
ward, rejoicing  to  bear  his  cross.  Direct  them  by 
the  counsels  of  thy  heavenly  wisdom,  and  encou- 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  97 

Second  Week.     Tuesday  Morning. 

rage  them  with  a  just  view  of  thy  promises  of  spi- 
ritual aid.  Give  unto  those  who  ask ;  let  them 
who  seek  find ;  open  the  door  of  thy  heavenly  king- 
dom to  those  who  knock,  giving  them  pardon  and 
peace. 

May  it  please  thee  to  strengthen  such  as  do  stand 
and  to  comfort  and  help  the  weak-hearted.  Con- 
tinue thy  mercy  to  those  whose  hearts  have  been 
renewed  by  a  living  faith.  Do  thou,  who  hast  be- 
gun a  good  work  in  them,  perform  it  until  the  day 
of  Jesus  Christ.  Stablish,  strengthen,  and  settle 
them  in  the  faith  which  was  once  delivered  to  the 
saints,  and  fix  their  affections  on  things  above.  And 
while  the  door  of  thy  mercy  is  yet  open,  may  every 
sinner  flee  from  the  wrath  to  come,  and  lay  hold  on 
eternal  life. 

And  wilt  thou,  O  gracious  Lord,  be  merciful  to 
this  family  and  household.  Our  hearts  are  in  thy 
hand,  and  our  wants  and  our  sins  are  all  before 
thee.  Cause  us  to  be  penitent  and  submissive  to 
thy  will,  and  give  us  such  knowledge  and  sense  of 
thy  goodness,  and  our  duty,  that  while  we  live  we 
may  live  to  thee.  Give  us  also,  we  pray  thee,  such 
temporal  comforts  and  good  things  of  this  world  as 
to  thy  unerring  wisdom  may  seem  fitting,  and  give 
us  grace  rightly  to  use  them.  Direct  and  bless  us 
in  all  we  do,  by  the  aid  and  guidance  of  thy  Holy 
Spirit.  May  we  go  on  from  strength  to  strength 
till  we  are  crowned  with  victory.  Help  us  to  fight 
the  good  fight  of  faith,  and  to  finish  our  course 
with  joy.  O  may  we  at  last  receive  the  crown  of 
righteousness,  which  the  Lord,  the  righteous  Judge, 
shall  give  unto  all  them  who  love  his  appearing. 
Grant  that  our  whole  spirit,  and  soul,  and  body, 
may  be  preserved  pure  and  blameless,  unto  the 
coming  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  in  whose  name 
we  offer  these  our  humble  supplications.  Amen. 
9  G 


98  GUIS  WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Tuesday  Evening. 


Second  Week.    Tuesday  Evening. 

RIGHTEOUS,  adorable,  and  eternal  God,  in  whom 
•we  live  and  have  our  being,  and  to  whose  merciful 
forbearance  we  owe  it  that  our  lives  are  yet  pro- 
longed, we  thank  thee  for  thy  great  goodness. 
Praised  be  thy  name,  that  we  are  permitted  once 
more  to  assemble  around  our  family  altar,  and 
offer  thee  the  incense  of  thankful  hearts.  The  day 
is  thine  and  the  night  is  thine.  Thou  makest  the 
outgoings  of  the  morning  and  the  evening  to  rejoice. 
The  heavens  declare  thy  glory,  and  the  earth  is 
filled  with  the  riches  of  thy  goodness.  It  is  of  thy 
mercy,  and  because  thy  compassions  fail  not,  that 
we  are  permitted  still  to  call  upon  thy  holy  name. 

But  wherewith  shall  we,  thy  unworthy  crea- 
tures, come  before  thee  1  We  beseech  thee,  O  hea- 
venly Father,  in  the  name  and  through  the  merits 
of  our  blessed  Savior  Jesus  Christ,  to  forgive  our 
sins,  and  favorably  with  mercy  to  hear  our  prayers. 
Thou  knowest,  O  Lord,  our  necessities  before  we 
ask  in  prayer,  and  our  ignorance  of  what  we  ought 
to  pray  for.  May  thy  Spirit  help  our  infirmities 
and  teach  us  how  to  pray.  Let  the  words  of  our 
mouth  and  the  desire  of  our  heart  be  acceptable  in 
thy  sight,  through  the  worthiness  of  Jesus  Christ, 
who  is  our  strength  and  our  Redeemer.  Grant  that 
we,  who  are  the  creatures  of  thy  power,  may  be- 
come the  subjects  of  thy  grace. 

The  heart  of  man  is  deceitful  and  desperately 
wicked.  Who  can  tell  how  often  he  offendeth? 
Cleanse  us,  we  beseech  thee,  from  our  secret  faults. 
Search  us,  O  God,  and  know  our  hearts ;  prove  us 
and  examine  our  thoughts.  Look  if  there  be  any 
way  of  wickedness  in  us,  and  lead  us  in  the  way 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  99 

Second  Week.     Tuesday  Evening. 

of  eternal  life.  O  deal  not  with  us  according  to  our 
sins,  nor  reward  us  as  our  transgressions  deserve. 

To  whom  can  we  go  for  pardon  and  peace  but 
to  thee,  O  Lord,  who  alone  hast  the  words  of  eternal 
life?  but  to  thee,  who  hast  graciously  promised, 
that  if  the  wicked  forsake  his  way  and  the  un- 
righteous man  his  thoughts,  and  turn  to  thee,  thou 
wilt  have  mercy  upon  him,  and  abundantly  pardon  1 
We  beseech  thee  to  pardon  our  sins  and  renew  a 
right  spirit  within  us.  Grant  us  that  righteousness 
which  is  by  faith  in  Jesus  Christ.  Sanctify  and 
govern  our  hearts  and  our  bodies,  in  the  ways  of 
thy  laws  and  in  the  works  of  thy  commandments, 
and  grant  that  our  hopes  and  our  desires  may  cen- 
tre in  Jesus  Christ,  our  only  Savior,  and  our  souls 
be  united  with  him,  in  a  holy  faith,  as  branches 
are  with  the  vine.  May  he  be  made  unto  us  wis- 
dom, and  righteousness,  and  sanctification,  and  re- 
demption, and  all  our  glorying  be  in  him.  Give  us 
grace  to  cast  away  the  works  of  darkness  and  to  put 
upon  us  the  armor  of  light,  while  we  sojourn  in  this 
state  of  mortality,  in  which  our  Savior  once  visited 
us  in  great  humility.  And  in  the  last  day,  when  he 
shall  come  again,  in  glorious  majesty,  to  judge  the 
world,  grant  that  we  may  rise  to  life  immortal, 
through  him,  who  died  for  our  sins  and  rose  again 
for  our  justification. 

Hear  our  prayers,  O  Lord,  for  all  mankind ;  may 
the  light  of  thy  truth  extend  through  the  world, 
and  increase,  until  all  the  nations  of  the  earth  shall 
rejoice  in  thy  salvation.  Bless  all  thy  churches 
and  all  thy  people,  and  those  especially  with  whom 
we  are  connected  in  the  fellowship  of  the  gospel. 
May  Zion  be  in  prosperity ;  peace  be  within  her 
walls,  and  plenteousness  within  her  palaces.  And 
may  the  kingdoms  of  the  earth  become  the  king- 
doms of  the  Lord  and  of  his  Christ. 

And  we  pray  thee,  O  Lord,  to  remember,  and 


100  CiRISWOLD's    PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Tuesday  Evening. 

help  us  to  remember  the  afflicted  and  distressed. 
Hearken  to  the  sighing  of  the  needy;  cause  the 
widow's  heart  to  sing  for  joy,  and  in  thee  may  the 
fatherless  find  mercy.  Give  to  them  who  mourn  in 
Zion  beauty  for  ashes,  and  the  garment  of  praise 
for  the  spirit  of  heaviness.  Comfort  all  who  are 
visited  with  affliction.  Sanctify  their  sorrows,  and 
raise  their  minds  from  the  world  to  thee. 

Look  in  mercy  upon  those  who  are  visited  with 
sickness  and  bodily  distress.  May  they  bow  with 
submission  under  thy  rod,  knowing  who  hath  ap- 
pointed it,  and  through  thy  grace  make  all  the 
improvement  which  thou  requirest.  Help  them  to 
glorify  thee,  whether  it  be  by  life  or  by  death, 
knowing  that  to  live  is  Christ,  and  to  die  is  gain,  to 
those  who  die  in  the  Lord. 

May  we  remember  them  who  are  in  bonds  as 
bound  with  them,  and  them  who  suffer  adversity 
as  being  ourselves  also  in  the  flesh.  Let  thy  good- 
ness, in  preserving  us  from  many  evils  which  others 
suffer,  make  us  humble  and  compassionate,  and 
thankful  to  thee,  who  makest  one  to  differ  from 
another  and  art  equally  good  to  all. 

We  beseech  thee  to  comfort  and  to  strengthen  all 
such  as  are  fearful  of  thy  terrors  and  distrustful  of 
thy  mercy.  The  bruised  reed  thou  wilt  not  break; 
a  broken  and  contrite  heart  thou  wilt  not  despise. 
May  all  who  mourn  for  their  sins  be  comforted 
through  thy  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ.  In  the  light 
of  thy  reconciled  countenance,  may  they  dwell  in 
peace  and  rejoice  in  hope.  And  grant,  O  Lord,  we 
may  not,  for  any  troubles  of  life,  or  allurements  of 
this  world,  lose  our  confidence  in  thee,  nor  place  it 
in  any  other. 

Make  us  thankful  for  the  mercies  of  the  day 
past,  and  that  we  are  yet  spared  to  speak  of  thy 
goodness.  Preserve  us,  we  pray  thee,  through  the 
perils  of  this  night.  Let  no  evil  happen  unto  us, 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  101 

Second  Week.     Wednesday  Morning. 

nor  plague  come  nigh  our  dwelling.  May  we  lie 
down  in  peace  and  take  our  rest,  and  through  thy 
mercy  rise  again  in  safety.  And  while  we  live 
may  we  live  to  thee,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord 
and  Savior.  Amen. 


Second  Week.    Wednesday  Morning. 

ALMIGHTY  and  immortal  God,  the  Creator  and 
Preserver  of  all  mankind ;  the  Giver  of  all  spiritual 
grace  and  the  Author  of  everlasting  life,  we  desire 
humbly  to  look  this  morning  unto  thee,  as  our  Fa- 
ther, who  art  in  heaven,  and  the  hope  of  all  the 
ends  of  the  earth.  The  eyes  of  all  wait  upon  thee, 
and  thou  givest  them  their  meat  in  due  season  ; 
thou  openest  thy  hand  and  fillest  all  things  living 
with  plenteousness.  Through  thy  goodness  are  we 
again  permitted  to  unite  in  praising  thee  for  thy 
goodness,  and  in  asking  for  those  things  which  we 
daily  need.  And  may  thy  Spirit  help  us  to  ask 
for  such  good  things  as  to  thy  wisdom  it  may  seem 
fitting  to  bestow.  We  acknowledge  that  we  are 
unworthy  to  ask  or  to  receive  of  thee  any  thing 
good.  Our  sins  deserve  thy  displeasure  ;  we  have 
followed  the  evil  devices  and  desires  of  our  own 
hearts.  Work  in  us,  we  beseech  thee,  a  hearty 
contrition,  that  we  may  obtain,  through  Jesus  Christ, 
perfect  remission  and  forgiveness. 

With  thankful  hearts  we  would  bless  thy  name, 
that  to  thee,  O  Lord,  belong  mercy  and  forgiveness; 
that  through  thy  love  to  mankind,  and  the  redemp- 
tion that  is  in  Jesus  Christ,  thou  canst  be  just  in 
justifying  them  who  believe  in  him.  We  bless  thee 
that  life  and  immortality  are  brought  to  light  in 
his  gospel,  and  for  all  thy  goodness  and  loving  kind- 

9* 


102  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Wednesday  Morning. 

ness  to  us  and  to  all  mankind.  We  thank  thee  that 
our  lot  has  fallen  where  his  gospel  is  preached  and 
its  ordinances  administered,  and  that  we  may  know 
from  childhood  those  Scriptures,  which,  if  truly  re- 
ceived, will  make  us  wise  unto  salvation.  We 
thank  thee  for  the  ministry  of  those  who  are  or- 
dained to  preach  thy  word  ;  for  the  means  of  grace, 
and  for  all  the  privileges  of  thy  sanctuary. 

Give  us  hearts  to  be  duly  thankful  that  we  are 
brought  in  safety  to  see  the  light  of  another  day,  and 
that  we  again  have  the  opportunity  of  renewing  our 
humble  sacrifice  of  praise  and  prayer.  We  beseech 
thee  to  incline  our  hearts  unto  thy  testimonies,  and 
to  guide  our  steps  in  the  way  of  thy  precepts.  May 
we  love  the  things  which  thou  commandest,  and 
strive  for  those  which  thou  dost  promise.  Give  us 
just  views  of  ourselves,  what  we  are  and  what  we 
need.  Do  for  us  and  work  in  us  that  which  thou 
shalt  see  fitting  for  our  present  comfort  and  eternal 
good.  Increase  our  faith,  enliven  our  hope,  and 
shed  abroad  thy  love  in  our  hearts.  Give  us  grace 
to  follow  after  that  charity  which  is  the  bond  of 
perfectness ;  which  suffereth  long  and  is  kind ; 
which  envieth  not  and  vaunteth  not  itself;  is  not 
easily  provoked  and  thinketh  no  evil.  May  we 
never  rejoice  in  iniquity,  but  rejoice  in  the  truth. 

And  accept,  O  Lord,  our  prayers  for  all  our  fel- 
low-men, that  they  may  be  subjects  of  thy  mercy 
and  obedient  to  thy  will.  Bless  thy  faithful  people, 
wherever  they  are  dispersed  throughout  the  world ; 
peace  be  on  them,  and  mercy,  and  upon  the  Israel 
of  God.  Grant  that,  by  the  operation  of  thy  Spirit, 
all  Christians  may  be  so  joined  together  in  unity 
and  love,  that  they  may  be  a  holy  temple  accepta- 
ble unto  thee.  Prosper  thy  word  wherever  it  is 
spoken  and  send  it  where  it  is  not  heard,  that  thy 
way  be  known  through  all  the  earth,  thy  saving 
health  among  all  nations.  Let  the  people  whom 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  103 

Second  Week.     Wednesday  Morning. 

thou  hast  redeemed  praise  thee,  O  Lord  ;  let  all  the 
people  praise  thee.  May  the  borders  of  Zion  be  en- 
larged, till  all  the  kingdoms  of  the  earth  become  the 
kingdoms  of  the  Lord  and  of  his  Christ. 

Grant  that  the  ministers  of  thy  word  may  be 
faithful  stewards  of  thy  mysteries  and  the  instru- 
ments of  converting  men  to  God,  and  of  saving 
themselves  and  others.  Open  to  them  an  effectual 
door  of  usefulness.  Give  them,  we  beseech  thee, 
utterance,  that  they  may  open  their  mouth  with 
boldness  to  make  known  the  mystery  of  the  gos- 
pel :  may  they  rightly  divide  the  word,  and  give 
to  all  their  portion  of  meat  in  due  season;  and 
may  their  own  lives  bear  testimony  to  the  truths 
which  they  teach.  And  grant  that  all  who  are  de- 
siring or  designed  for  the  office  of  that  sacred  mi- 
nistry, may,  by  thy  sanctifying  Spirit,  be  prepared 
for  a  faithful  and  successful  discharge  of  its  duties. 
Prepare  them  to  labor  in  word  and  doctrine,  in  sea- 
son and  out  of  season,  and  to  spend  and  be  spent 
in  thy  work.  And  give  us  grace  so  to  account  of 
them  as  stewards  of  thy  mysteries.  To  those  who 
are  faithfin  in  word  and  doctrine,  may  we  render 
double  honor. 

Behold,  O  Lord,  in  thy  mercy,  Israel  after  the 
flesh.  Remove  the  veil  of  ignorance  which  blinds 
the  mind  of  the  Jews :  may  they  see  and  know  that 
Jesus  is  the  Christ,  the  Son  of  the  living  God,  and 
the  only  Savior  of  the  world ;  and  may  they  seek 
with  penitence  and  faith  Him  whom  their  fathers 
rejected.  Pity  that  blindness  which  has  in  part 
happened  unto  Israel,  and  hasten  on  the  time  when, 
as  the  natural  branches,  they  shall  be  grafted  into 
their  own  olive  tree  ;  when  the  fulness  of  the  Gen- 
tiles shall  come  in,  and  all  Israel  shall  be  saved. 

We  pray  for  thy  blessing  upon  our  churches — 
upon  our  country — upon  our  rulers,  and  upon  all 
who  are  in  authority.  Give  them  wisdom  and 


104  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Wednesday  Evening. 

grace,  that  they  may  execute  justice  and  maintain 
truth ;  and  that  thy  people,  being  secured  by  the 
ministration  of  wise  and  equal  laws,  may  serve 
thee  in  all  godly  quietness. 

Pardon,  O  Lord,  our  sins  and  accept  our  prayers, 
granting  us  those  good  things  which  we  are  not 
worthy  to  ask,  but  in  the  name  and  through  the 
merits  of  our  Lord  and  Savior  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


Second  Week.    Wednesday  Evening. 

GREAT  and  eternal  God,  the  infinite  Jehovah,  who 
only  hast  immortality,  and  dwellest  in  the  light 
which  no  man  can  approach  unto,  we  humbly  look 
unto  thee  as  the  Father  of  our  spirits,  and  the  Giver 
of  all  good.  Whom  have  we  in  heaven  but  thee, 
and  who  is  there  on  earth  that  we  can  desire  in 
comparison  of  thee  !  Thou  alone  hast  the  words 
of  eternal  life,  and  art  the  hope  of  all  the  ends  of 
the  world.  Thou  hast  laid  the  foundation  of  the 
earth,  and  the  heavens  are  the  work  of  thy  hand. 
They  shall  perish,  but  thou  shall  endure,  and  thy 
years  shall  have  no  end.  Though  thy  dwelling 'is 
in  the  heavens,  and  thy  glory  above  them,  yet  thou 
dost  humble  thyself  to  behold  the  things  that  are  in 
the  earth :  thou  raisest  the  poor  out  of  the  dust ; 
thou  hearest  the  prayer  of  the  weak  and  destitute. 

Let  thine  ears,  we  beseech  thee,  be  attentive  to 
our  humble  supplication.  We  would  approach 
thee,  O  Lord,  not  trusting  in  our  own  righteousness, 
but  in  thy  manifold  and  great  mercies,  and  in  the 
merits  of  our  Mediator,  Jesus  Christ.  May  thy 
blessed  Spirit  aid  our  devotions,  sanctify  our  hearts, 
and  raise  our  affections  from  this  world  to  thee. 
Open  thou  our  lips,  that  our  mouth  may  show  forth 
thy  praise. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  105 

Second  Week.     Wednesday  Evening. 

Make  us  deeply  sensible  that  thou  art  in  heaven 
and  we  upon  earth ;  that  thou  art  wise,  and  just, 
and  good,  while  we  are  blind,  and  frail,  and  sin- 
ful. With  humble  reverence  may  we  rejoice  that 
thou  art  a  God  hearing  prayer  and  forgiving  sin ; 
and  art  more  ready  to  give  good  gifts  than  we  to 
ask.  Extend  to  us,  O  Lord,  thy  pardoning  mercy, 
forgiving  our  multiplied  offences,  and  giving  us 
those  good  things,  which  of  ourselves  we  are  not 
worthy  to  pray  for.  Be  merciful  unto  us  arid  bless 
us,  and  cause  thy  face  to  shine  upon  us.  Grant 
that  thy  way  may  be  known  upon  earth  ;  thy  sav- 
ing health  among  all  nations.  Let  the  people 
praise  thee,  O  Lord ;  let  all  the  people  praise  thee. 

Fill  us  with  hope  and  joy  in  believing  thy  pro- 
mises in  Jesus  Christ :  may  we  esteem  all  things 
but  loss  for  the  excellency  of  the  knowledge  of  him. 
May  we  know  him  and  the  power  of  his  resurrec- 
tion, and  be  in  all  things  conformed  to  his  image, 
knowing  that  he  who  hath  the  Son  hath  life,  and 
shall  never  come  into  condemnation.  May  we  be 
followers  of  God,  as  dear  children,  and  be  perfect 
in  love,  as  our  Father  in  heaven  is  perfect.  Give 
us  grace  to  put  on,  as  the  elect  of  God,  bowels  of 
mercy,  kindness,  humbleness  of  mind,  meekness 
and  long-suffering,  forbearing  one  another,  and  for- 
giving one  another.  Teach  us  what  thou  wilt  have 
us  to  do,  and  make  us  ready  to  every  good  work. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  to  preserve  us  from  all 
self-righteousness,  and  vain  reliance  on  the  merits 
of  what  we  do.  May  we  never  forget  that  by  grace 
we  are  saved,  through  faith,  and  that  not  of  our- 
selves it  is  the  gift  of  God.  Give  us,  we  beseech 
thee,  a  right  view  of  that  living  faith  in  Christ 
which  does  not  make  void,  but  establishes  the  law ; 
which  renews  the  heart,  and  is  fruitful  in  good 
works.  May  we  ever  remember  that  in  Jesus 
Christ  neither  circumcision  availeth  any  thing  nor 


106  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Wednesday  Evening. 

uncircuracision,  but  faith  which  worketh  by  love 
and  keepeth.the  commandments  of  God.  May  we 
not  deceive  ourselves,  by  trusting  in  the  Savior, 
while  we  neglect  his  great  salvation;  by  calling 
him  Lord,  while  we  do  not  the  things  which  he 
commands.  O  suffer  us  not  to  perish  amidst  the 
means  designed  to  save  us.  May  we  never  be 
weary  in  doing  well.  Though  faint  may  we  still 
be  pursuing,  pressing  towards  the  mark  for  the 
prize  of  the  high  calling  of  God  in  Christ  Jesus. 
Let  our  trust  and  our  hope  be  ever  in  him.  As 
our  Prophet,  may  we  hearken  to  his  word ;  as  our 
Priest,  let  our  trust  be  in  the  merits  of  his  one  sa- 
crifice for  sins ;  and  as  our  King,  may  we  faithfully 
observe  his  precepts. 

Help  us,  O  Lord,  to  love  our  neighbor  as  we  love 
ourselves,  and  to  perform  faithfully  every  duty 
which  we  owe  to  others.  Preserve  us  from  envy, 
selfishness  and  pride,  and  from  all  manner  of  un- 
charitableness.  Give  us  grace  to  bear  with  pa- 
tience and  a  forgiving  spirit  the  faults  of  men,  and 
the  injuries  of  those  who  may  do  us  wrong,  not 
rendering  evil  for  evil,  but  endeavoring  to  overcome 
evil  with  good.  Let  the  spirit  which  was  in  our 
Savior  Christ,  his  love  and  forbearance  and  long- 
suffering,  be  also  in  us.  As  he  loved  us,  may  we 
also  love  one  another.  Though  pains  or  sorrows 
should  be  our  portion,  let  us  always  rejoice  in  the 
good  and  prosperity  of  other  people,  and  be  ever 
ready  to  praise  thee  for  thy  goodness,  and  for  all 
the  benefits  bestowed  upon  our  fellow-men.  Espe- 
cially give  us  grace  to  rejoice  in  their  hopes  of  sal- 
vation ;  in  their  repentance,  and  faith,  and  obedi- 
ence to  thy  holy  word. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  mercifully  to  accept 
this  our  evening  sacrifice.  Give  us  hearts  to  be 
thankful  for  all  thy  goodness,  and  especially  for  the 
favors  of  the  day  past ;  and  we  humbly  ask  for  thy 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  107 

Second  Week.     Thursday  Morning. 

protection  through  this  night.  Preserve  us,  we  pray 
thee,  from  every  evil ;  refresh  our  bodies  with  need- 
ful rest ;  and  may  we  rise  in  the  morning  with  thank- 
ful hearts  disposed  to  do  thy  will.  We  ask  these 
things  in  the  name  of  our  only  Savior,  Jesus  Christ. 
Amen. 

And  to  the  God  of  our  salvation,  the  Father,  the 
Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  ascribed  the  kingdom, 
and  the  power,  and  the  glory,  forever  and  ever. 
Amen. 


Second  Week.    Thursday  Morning. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  whose  throne  is  the 
highest  heaven  and  the  earth  thy  footstool,  we  de- 
sire this  morning  to  raise  our  heart  and  our  voice 
to  thee,  as  the  Father  of  mercies;  the  giver  of  all 
good ;  the  God  of  all  comfort.  Thou  dost  accord- 
ing to  thy  will  in  the  armies  of  heaven  and  among 
the  inhabitants  of  the  earth.  The  day  is  thine  and 
the  night  is  thine,  and  as  thou  art  graciously  pleased 
to  renew  our  time,  and  our  strength,  and  our  com- 
forts, help  us  to  renew  our  purposes  to  walk  in  the 
way  of  thy  commandments.  May  our  souls  praise 
thee,  who  saveth  our  life  from  destruction,  and 
crowneth  us  with  mercy  and  loving  kindness.  Do 
thou,  who  hast  brought  us  safely  to  the  beginning 
of  this  day,  defend  us  from  its  perils,  and  grant 
that  all  we  do  may  be  ordered  by  thy  governance 
and  righteous  in  thy  sight.  Whether  we  eat,  or 
drink,  or  whatsoever  we  do,  may  it  be  to  thy  glory 
in  Jesus  Christ. 

Let  our  prayer,  we  beseech  thee,  come  before 
thee  as  the  morning  incense.  We  trust  not  in  our 
own  righteousness,  but  in  thy  manifold  and  great 
mercies.  We  are  not  worthy  to  appear  before  thee, 
nor  to  ask  or  receive  the  smallest  favor.  Enter  not 


108  ORISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Thursday  Morning. 

into  judgment  with  thy  sinful  creatures ;  for  in  thy 
sight  shall  no  man  living  be  justified.  With  the 
light  of  the  morning,  may  we  enjoy  the  light  of  thy 
countenance.  Grant  that  the  Sun  of  Righteousness 
may  enlighten  our  souls  in  the  ways  of  heavenly 
wisdom,  and  our  path  be  as  the  shining  light,  which 
shineth  more  and  more  unto  the  perfect  day.  Do 
thou,  who  makest  the  outgoings  of  the  morning  to 
rejoice,  help  us  to  walk  in  the  way  of  thy  com- 
mandments, and  faithfully  to  discharge  the  duties 
of  our  several  stations.  Preserve  us  from  all  idola- 
trous affection  for  worldly  things.  May  we  seek 
first  and  as  the  greatest  good  the  kingdom  of  God 
and  his  righteousness  ;  and  while  we  are  diligent  in 
our  lawful  business,  may  we  use  the  world  as  not 
abusing  it.  Do  thou,  who  art  about  our  bed  and 
about  our  paths,  direct  us  in  the  way  that  we  should 
go,  and  suffer  not  our  feet  to  slip. 

We  pray  for  thy  blessing  upon  this  family ;  may 
our  youth  be  trained  up  in  the  nurture  and  admoni- 
tion of  the  Lord,  and  through  thy  grace  never  de- 
part from  the  way  in  which  they  should  go,  nor 
from  the  holy  commandment  given  unto  them. 
Pour  thy  blessing  upon  our  seed,  and  thy  Spirit  up- 
on our  offspring ;  that  our  sons  may  be  as  plants 
growing  in  thy  vineyard,  and  our  daughters  be 
adorned  with  the  ornament  of  a  Christian  spirit. 
Give  thy  blessing  to  all  the  rising  generation.  May 
they  remember  their  Creator  in  the  days  of  their 
youth ;  may  they  seek  thee  while  thou  mayst  be 
found  and  call  upon  thee  while  thou  art  near.  Pre- 
serve them  from  the  snares  and  temptations  of  this 
evil  world.  May  they  remember  the  Lord's  day  to 
keep  it  holy,  rejoicing  to  view  it,  not  as  a  burthen, 
but  as  being  made  for  man,  and  knowing  that  the 
Son  of  man  is  Lord  also  of  the  Sabbath. 

Help  those,  O  Lord,  who  are  advanced  to  riper 
years,  to  do  with  diligence  what  their  hands  find 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  109 

Second  Week.     Thursday  Morning. 

to  do,  while  the  day  continues,  and  before  the  night 
cometh  in  which  no  man  can  work.  Awaken  to 
righteousness  the  aged;  let  the  hoary  head  be  a 
crown  of  glory.  May  we  all  aspire  to  that  honora- 
ble age  which  standeth  not  in  length  of  time,  nor 
is  measured  by  number  of  years  ;  to  that  wisdom 
which  is  the  gray  hair  unto  man,  and  an  unspotted 
life,  which  is  old  age. 

Increase  our  love  and  Christian  affection  for  all 
mankind.  May  we  weep  with  those  who  weep, 
and  rejoice  with  them  that  rejoice,  and  pray  for  all 
who  desire  and  all  who  need  our  prayers.  Be  mer- 
ciful, we  beseech  thee,  O  be  merciful  to  them  who 
do  not  pray  for  themselves.  May  they  be  con- 
vinced of  sin,  of  righteousness,  and  of  judgment, 
and  call  upon  thee  in  a  time  accepted. 

Be  merciful  to  those  who  are  far  from  the  king- 
dom of  God.  By  the  power  of  thy  grace,  bring 
them  near  to  thyself,  that  they  may  see  the  light  of 
thy  truth,  and  rejoice  in  thy  salvation.  Hear  our 
prayer  for  the  poor  and  needy ;  such  as  we  have, 
our  prayers,  at  least,  may  we  ever  be  ready  to  give, 
and  according  to  our  means  and  opportunity  bestow 
upon  them  the  things  they  need.  Grant  them  grace 
to  be  contented  and  resigned  to  thy  will :  may  they 
be  rich  in  faith ;  heirs  of  thy  heavenly  kingdom,  re- 
joicing in  hope,  and  knowing  that  all  things  work 
for  good  to  those  who  love  and  fear  thee. 

Preserve  them  who  are  rich  from  being  high- 
minded  and  trusting  too  much  in  worldly  things. 
Let  them  not  forget  who  it  is  that  giveth  men  pow- 
er to  get  wealth,  and  maketh  them  to  differ  from 
the  poor  and  wretched.  Help  them  to  be  faithful 
stewards  of  the  wealth  and  other  good  things  com- 
mitted to  their  trust.  May  they  be  ready  to  give 
and  glad  to  distribute,  laying  up  for  themselves  a 
good  foundation  against  the  time  to  come,  that  they 
may  attain  eternal  life. 
10 


110  GRISWOLD'S   PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Thursday  Evening. 

We  ask  thy  blessing,  O  Lord,  upon  our  friends 
and  benefactors.  May  we  ever  remember,  with 
grateful  affection,  all  who  have  done  us  good,  and 
wilt  thou  reward  them  for  their  kindness  and  love. 
Bless,  we  beseech  thee,  all  who  are  near  and  dear 
to  us :  may  they  be  dear  to  thee,  and  under  thy 
merciful  care  and  protection.  Preserve  us  from 
ingratitude,  and  help  us  to  make  due  returns  of  kind 
affection  to  all  who  have  been  kind  to  us. 

Regard  with  favor  the  people  of  this  our  country, 
and  be  gracious  to  our  native  land.  May  that 
righteousness  increase  which  exalteth  a  nation; 
and  preserve  us,  we  entreat  thee,  from  sin,  which 
is  a  reproach  to  any  people,  and  has  been  the  ruin 
of  thousands. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  to  incline  thine  ears  to 
us  who  have  now  made  our  prayers  and  supplica- 
tions unto  thee,  and  grant  that  the  things  which  we 
have  asked  may  mercifully  be  obtained,  to  our 
comfort,  and  to  thy  glory,  through  Jesus  Christ, 
our  blessed  Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


Second  Week.    Thursday  Evening. 

O  LORD  God  our  heavenly  Father,  who  hast  pro- 
mised, by  thy  Son,  that  where  two  or  three  are 
gathered  together  in  his  name,  he  will  be  with 
them,  and  that  if  a  few  shall  agree  on  earth,  as 
touching  any  thing  that  they  shall  ask,  it  shall  be 
done  for  them,  behold  with  thy  favor  and  blessing 
us  few  in  his  name  here  assembled,  who  would 
unite  in  asking  of  thee  those  things  which  are  re- 
quisite and  necessary  for  our  bodily  comfort  and  for 
our  spiritual  good.  Make  us  duly  thankful  that 
thou  dost  vouchsafe  to  forgive  the  sins,  and  to  hear 
the  prayers,  and  to  relieve  the  wants  of  thy  unwor- 


GRIS WOLD'S    PRAYERS.  Ill 

Second  Week.     Thursday  Evening. 

thy  creatures.  For  this  thy  great  goodness  we 
bless  thy  holy  name,  beseeching  thee  to  give  us  the 
spirit  of  grace  and  supplication,  and  help  us  to  ask 
for  such  things  as  we  truly  need. 

We  entreat  thee,  O  merciful  God,  to  forgive  our 
sins,  to  accept  our  prayers,  to  sanctify  our  hearts  and 
renew  a  right  spirit  within  us ;  and  grant  that  we 
may  ever  hereafter  serve  and  please  thee  in  new- 
ness of  life.  Awaken  in  our  minds  such  a  sense  of 
thy  love  and  of  thy  goodness,  that  we,  loving  thee 
above  all  things,  may  walk  in  thy  ways  and  attain 
to  thy  promises,  which  exceed  all  that  we  can  ask 
or  think.  Do  thou,  who  hast  delivered  our  soul 
from  death,  preserve  our  feet  from  falling,  and  give 
us  grace  to  walk  according  to  thy  holy  precepts. 
According  to  the  riches  of  thy  grace,  strengthen  us 
with  might  by  thy  Spirit  in  the  inner  man ;  that 
Christ  may  dwell  in  our  hearts  by  faith ;  that  we 
may  be  rooted  and  grounded  in  love ;  that  we  may 
know  the  love  of  Christ,  which  passeth  knowledge, 
and  be  filled  with  all  the  fulness  of  God. 

Prepare  us,  O  Lord,  for  all  the  changes  of  this 
present  world :  may  we  know  how  to  be  abased 
and  how  to  abound,  and  learn,  in  whatever  state 
we  are,  therewith  to  be  contented.  Give  us  grace 
to  cast  away  the  works  of  darkness  and  to  put  up- 
on us  the  armor  of  light ;  to  do  justly,  love  mercy 
and  walk  humbly  with  God.  O  may  thy  Spirit 
bear  witness  with  our  spirit,  that  we  are  thy  chil- 
dren and  joint  heirs  with  Christ  of  thy  heavenly 
kingdom. 

And  the  blessings  which  we  supplicate  for  our- 
selves, would  we  ask  for  our  fellow-men.  We  be- 
seech thee  to  extend  the  light  of  thy  truth  and  the 
power  of  thy  grace  through  the  darkness  of  this 
sinful  world,  and  among  all  the  nations  of  the 
earth.  May  our  heart's  desire  and  prayer  for  Israel 
be  that  they  may  be  saved.  Call  in  the  Jews,  with 


112  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Thursday  Evening. 

the  fulness  of  the  Gentiles ;  say  to  the  north,  Give 
up,  and  to  the  south,  Keep  not  back.  Bring  thy 
sons  from  far,  and  thy  daughters  from  the  ends  of 
the  earth. 

We  beseech  thee  to  hear  our  prayer  for  the  un- 
numbered millions  who  still  remain  in  heathen 
darkness.  Grant  that  the  Sun  of  Righteousness 
may  rise  upon  them  Avith  healing  in  his  wings.  O 
wilt  thou  raise  up  and  send  forth  laborers  into  this 
great  harvest.  Let  thy  Spirit  and  the  richest  bless- 
ings of  thy  grace  be  with  those  ministers  of  thy 
word,  who,  with  their  life  in  their  hand,  and  thy 
love  in  their  hearts,  go  forth  to  preach  the  gospel  in 
foreign  lands.  Preserve  their  health  and  give  them 
aid  from  above :  according  to  their  day  may  their 
strength  be.  Stretch  out  thine  arm  with  power 
until  thou  hast  obtained  the  heathen  for  thine  inhe- 
ritance, and  the  utmost  parts  of  the  earth  for  thy 
possession. 

Give  thy  blessing  to  those  who  associate  for  be- 
nevolent and  religious  objects ;  who  contribute  of 
their  substance  and  by  their  prayers  to  the  promo- 
tion of  Christian  knowledge  and  to  the  propagation 
of  the  gospel  in  foreign  parts.  Wilt  thou  enlarge 
their  means  and  bless  their  labors. 

And  we  beseech  thee  to  keep  thy  household,  the 
church,  in  continual  godliness,  and  preserve  it  by 
thy  perpetual  mercy.  Enlarge  its  borders-,  and  dai- 
ly add  to  it  such  as  shall  be  saved.  Defend  it  from 
error  in  faith  and  practice,  and  to  all  its  members 
give  the  abundance  of  thy  grace,  that  they  may 
adorn  their  profession  by  living  soberly,  righteously 
and  godly  in  this  present  world.  We  pray  espe- 
cially for  that  part  of  thy  church  to  which  we  be- 
long, and  for  those  of  thy  people  with  whom  we  are 
more  particularly  connected  in  religious  privileges. 
Strengthen,  we  beseech  thee,  those  who  stand; 
comfort  and  help  the  weak  and  wavering ;  raise  up 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  113 

Second  Week.     Friday  Morning. 

those  who  fall,  and  bring  all  who  err  into  the  way 
of  truth.  May  grace  and  mercy  and  peace  be  upon 
all  who  love  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  in  sincerity. 

And  wilt  thou  grant  to  all,  who  profess  and  call 
themselves  Christians,  union,  peace  and  love.  May 
they,  with  one  heart  and  one  mind,  hold  the  true 
doctrines  of  eternal  life,  and  strive  together  for  the 
faith  of  the  gospel.  May  we  never  forget  that  the 
end  of  the  commandment  is  charity,  without  which 
all  our  words  and  faith  and  works  are  nothing. 
May  we  abound  in  the  fruit  of  the  Spirit,  which  is 
in  all  goodness  and  righteousness  and  truth.  Pre- 
serve us  from  all  heresy  and  schism :  may  we  do 
nothing  which  will  cause  or  perpetuate  divisions 
among  the  disciples  of  Jesus  Christ.  Him  that  is 
weak  in  the  faith  may  we  receive  in  love,  rather 
than  to  doubtful  disputations.  Help  us  to  rejoice 
in  the  good  that  is  done  by  all  or  any  Christians  of 
any  name :  and  especially  that  Christ  is  preached, 
and  that  the  doctrines  of  life  are  made  known  to 
men. 

Give  us,  O  Lord,  a  right  judgment  in  all  things, 
and  hearts  disposed  in  all  things  to  do  right ;  and 
be  thou  the  strength  of  our  heart  and  our  portion 
forever.  We  ask  these  things  in  the  name  and 
through  the  mediation  of  Jesus  Christ,  to  whom, 
with  thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all  glory  and 
praise,  both  now  and  ever.  Amen. 


Second  Week.    Friday  Morning. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  to  whose  patient 
goodness  we  owe  it  that  we  thy  dependent  creatures 
are  again  permitted  to  bow  our  knees  and  unite  in 
prayer  before  thee,  let,  we  beseech  thee,  thine  ears 
be  attentive  to  our  humble  supplications.  Thank- 

H 


114  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Friday  Morning. 

fill  for  the  preservation  of  another  night,  and  the 
renewal  of  thy  mercies  this  morning,  and  sensible 
that  our  wants  are  also  renewed,  we  pray  thee,  O 
heavenly  Father,  to  accept  our  thanks  and  hear  our 
prayers.  We  praise  thee  for  thy  goodness ;  we  ac- 
knowledge our  transgressions,  and  we  entreat  thee, 
for  the  worthiness  of  our  Savior  Christ,  to  blot  our 
offences  and  to  wash  away  our  sins.  There  is  not 
a  thought  in  our  heart  but  thou,  O  Lord,  knowest 
it  altogether.  Cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our  hearts, 
by  the  inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  the  wor- 
ship which  we  now  offer  may  please  thee,  and  that 
the  rest  of  our  life  hereafter  may  be  pure  and  holy. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  to  give  us  that  know- 
ledge of  thy  word  and  thy  will  which  will  make 
us  wise  unto  salvation.  Wilt  thou  reveal  thyself 
to  us  as  thou  dost  not  to  the  world,  that  we  may 
know  thee  the  true  God,  and  Jesus  Christ  whom 
thou  hast  sent.  May  thy  law  be  our  study  and  our 
delight,  and  thy  Holy  Spirit  dwell  within  us,  and 
so  sanctify  our  thoughts  and  govern  our  wills,  that 
we  may  present  our  bodies  a  living  sacrifice  holy 
and  acceptable  unto  thee,  which  is  our  reasonable 
service.  As  thou,  O  Lord,  art  holy ;  so  may  we  be 
holy  in  all  manner  of  conversation  :  and  as  He,  who 
lived  and  died  for  our  benefit,  spent  his  life  in  doing 
good ;  so  may  we  never  be  weary  in  well-doing. 

We  are  sensible  that  at  best  we  are  imperfect, 
and  that  our  best  deeds  merit  punishment,  rather 
than  reward.  Great  is  thy  mercy  in  accepting 
unworthy  sinners,  and  justifying  those  who  have 
transgressed  thy  laws;  unspeakable  thy  goodness 
in  promising,  through  faith  in  Christ,  immortal  life 
to  those  who  were  dead  in  trespasses  and  sins. 
Make  us  truly  thankful  for  thy  mercies,  and  in  all 
things  obedient  to  thy  will. 

Give  us  hearts,  O  Lord,  to  feel  and  to  pray  for 
our  fellow-men.  May  the  truths  of  thy  word  be 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  115 

Second  Week.     Friday  Morning. 

grafted  in  their  hearts  and  fruitful  in  their  lives. 
Let  not  those  who  hear  the  gospel  of  their  Savior 
Christ  neglect  his  great  salvation.  O  let  not  them, 
who  have  transgressed  thy  laws,  add  to  their  sins 
by  refusing  thy  offered  mercy.  When  thou  callest, 
give  them  ears  to  hear ;  when  thou  stretchest  out 
thy  hand  to  save  may  all  regard  it. 

We  ask  for  thy  blessing  upon  our  neighbors,  rela- 
tives and  friends.  Unite  them  all  in  friendship, 
peace  and  love;  give  them  prosperity,  and  every 
blessing  of  life  and  religion.  May  every  heart  be 
filled  with  thankfulness  for  thy  unbounded  good- 
ness. May  all  the  habitations  of  Christians  be 
houses  of  prayer,  and  every  family  offer  thee  daily 
the  incense  of  holy,  thankful  hearts. 

Help  all  thy  people  to  walk  with  wisdom  and 
prudence  towards  those  who  are  without  the  pale 
of  thy  church,  and  to  grow  in  grace  and  in  the 
knowledge  and  love  of  Jesus  Christ.  Endue  them 
with  spiritual  gifts.  Let  love  be  without  dissimu- 
lation. Preserve  them  from  bigotry  and  from  all 
uncharitableness.  May  they  be  kindly  affectioned 
one  towards  another,  with  brotherly  love ;  in  honor 
preferring  one  another.  May  all  bitterness  and  evil- 
speaking  be  put  away  from  them,  with  all  malice. 
May  they  mind  not  high  things,  but  condescend  to 
men  of  low  estate,  and  endeavor,  as  much  as  is 
possible,  to  live  peaceably  with  all  men. 

May  it  please  thee,  O  God,  to  give  to  all  thy  peo- 
ple increase  of  grace  :  may  they  hear  meekly  thy 
word,  and  receive  it  with  pure  affection  and  bring 
forth  the  fruits  of  the  Spirit.  May  it  please  thee  to 
succor,  help  and  comfort  all  who  are  in  danger, 
necessity  and  tribulation.  Wilt  thou,  O  Lord,  pre- 
serve all  who  travel,  by  land  or  by  water.  Grant 
that  they  who  are  called  to  journey,  who  have 
occasion  to  travel  to  distant  countries  and  to  various 
parts  of  the  earth,  may  be  under  the  constant  care 


116  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Friday  Morning. 

and  protection  of  thy  good  providence.  [And 
him  especially  who,  &c.  Any  particular  case  may 
here  be  mentioned.]  Keep  them  in  safety  to  their 
journey's  end.  In  all  dangers  of  soul  or  body 
cover  them  with  ftie  shadow  of  thy  wings :  give 
thy  angels  charge  over  them,  to  keep  them  in  all 
their  ways.  May  thy  merciful  goodness  lead  and 
follow  them  in  all  their  pilgrimage,  giving  success 
to  the  business  in  which  they  may  be  engaged,  and 
making  all  their  affairs  prosperous  and  of  happy 
termination.  Be  with  them,  we  beseech  thee,  in  all 
the  journey  of  life,  and  bring  them  at  last  to  thy 
holy,  heavenly  rest. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  all  they  who  go  down  to  the 
sea  in  ships  and  do  business  on  the  great  waters  of 
the  deep,  may  be  under  thy  special  care  and  keep- 
ing. They  are  called  to  see  the  wonders  of  thy 
hand,  and  how  great  is  thy  power,  which  the  winds 
and  the  seas  obey.  We  earnestly  commend  them 
to  thy  providential  care,  [and  him  especially,  for 
whose  preservation  on  the  great  deep  we  parti- 
cularly desire  to  offer  up  our  prayers.]  Do  thou, 
who  alone  spreadest  out  the  heavens  and  rulest  the 
raging  of  the  sea,  protect  them  through  the  path  of 
the  mighty  waters.  Though  the  floods  lift  up  their 
voice  and  their  waves,  thou,  Lord  on  high,  art 
mightier  than  many  waters.  Guard  them  in  the 
time  of  peril;  preserve  them  from  sickness,  from 
the  violence  of  enemies,  and  from  every  evil  to 
which  they  may  be  exposed.  Conduct  them  in 
safety  to  the  haven  where  they  would  be,  with  a 
thankful  sense  of  thy  mercy.  Hear  us,  O  Lord,  for 
the  sake  of  thy  Son,  our  Savior  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  117 

Second  Week.    Friday  Evening. 


Second  Week.    Friday  Evening. 

O  LORD  God  of  our  salvation,  who  art  the  hope 
of  all  the  ends  of  the  earth ;  all  eyesjtf ait  upon  thee 
as  the  Giver  of  life  and  breath,  and  of  all  things 
good.  Thy  glory  is  above  the  heavens  :  thou  hast 
created  all  things  and  upholdest  them  with  thine 
almighty  ,hand.  In  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ  we 
bow  at  thy  footstool,  to  thank  thee  for  the  mercies 
of  the  day  past,  and  humbly  to  ask  for  the  continu- 
ance of  thy  goodness. 

We  desire,  O  heavenly  Father,  to  acknowledge 
our  un worthiness  and  to  bewail  the  sins  which 
from  time  to  time  we  have  committed,  in  thought, 
word  and  deed,  provoking  thy  just  wrath  against 
us.  Give  us  grace,  most  merciful  God,  truly  to  re- 
pent, and  to  be  heartily  sorry  for  all  our  misdoings. 
The  remembrance  of  them  is  grievous ;  the  burthen 
of  them  is  intolerable.  For  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ 
forgive  us  what  is  past,  and  grant  that  we  may  ever 
hereafter  serve  and  please  thee  in  newness  of  life. 
And  because  without  thee  we  are. unable  to  please 
thee,  mercifully  grant  that  thy  Holy  Spirit  may,  in 
all  things,  direct  and  rule  our  hearts. 

Give  us  grace  to  receive  the  record  that  thou 
hast  given  unto  us  eternal  life,  and  this  life  is  in 
thy  Son.  May  we  look  to  him  as  our  Advocate 
with  the  Father ;  on  him  depend  for  pardon  and 
life,  and  may  all  our  glorying  be  in  him.  We 
would  desire  above  all  things  to  be  accepted  in  him, 
and  have  redemption  through  his  blood,  viewing 
him  as  the  end  of  the  law  for  righteousness  to  those 
who  believe. 

Wonderfully  hast  thou  manifested  thy  love  to  our 
fallen-  race,  in  that,  whilst  we  were  yet  sinners, 
Christ  died  for  us,  and  that  salvation  is  offered  to 


118  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Friday  Evening. 

all  through  faith  in  him.  Herein  is  love  indeed ; 
not  that  we  loved  God,  but  that  thou  hast  loved  us, 
and  hast  given  him  to  be  the  propitiation  for  our 
sins.  Grant  that  our  souls  may  be  united  with  him 
by  a  divine  and  living  faith.  What  things  have 
been  gain  to  us  may  we  count  but  loss  for  Christ. 
May  we  ever  know  him,  and  the  power  of  his  re- 
surrection, and  the  fellowship  of  his  sufferings ; 
and  may  we  be  made  conformable  to  his  death,  by 
dying  to  sin,  and  rising  again  unto  righteousness. 
Deliver  us,  we  entreat  thee,  from  the  dominion  of 
sin,  and  save  us,  by  the  washing  of  regeneration 
and  the  renewing  of  the  Holy  Ghost. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  the  love  of  Christ  may  con- 
strain us,  and  that,  as  he  loved  us,  we  also  may  love 
one  another.  In  all  our  intercourse  with  our  Chris- 
tian brethren  and  with  the  world  may  we  follow 
after  that  charity  which  is  the  bond  of  perfectness, 
and  the  fulfilling  of  the  whole  law. 

Preserve  us  from  inordinate  affections  and  desire 
of  worldly  things.  May  we  learn,  in  whatsoever 
state  we  are,  therewith  to  be  content.  Deliver  us 
from  covetousness,  which  is  idolatry  and  the  root 
of  all  evil.  In  seasons  of  prosperity  make  us  hum- 
ble, and  in  adversity  resigned  to  thy  will.  We  be- 
seech thee  to  give  us  all  such  good  things,  temporal 
and  spiritual,  as  are  needful  to  our  present  comfort 
and  peace,  and  give  us  grace  rightly  to  use  them. 
May  all  our  conversation  be  such  as  becometh  the 
gospel  of  Christ.  Knowing  that  by  our  words  we 
shall  be  justified  and  by  our  words  condemned, 
may  we  set  a  watch  at  the  door  of  our  lips,  that 
we  may  speak  evil  of  no  man ;  and  take  heed  to 
our  ways,  that  we  offend  not  with  our  tongue. 
Help  us  ever  to  speak  the  truth  in  love,  having  our 
conversation  in  the  world  in  simplicity  and  godly 
sincerity. 

And  we  desire,  O  God,  in  our  prayer,  to  remem- 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  119 

Second  Week.     Friday  Evening. 

ber  the  wants  of  our  neighbors,  beseeching  thee, 
who  knowest  the  hearts  and  the  wants  of  all  men, 
to  give  them  what  they  need.  So  far  as  thou  shalt 
see  it  to  be  fitting,  and  that  it  will  promote  their 
best  good,  give  them,  we  pray  thee,  health  and 
prosperity  and  peace.  Chiefly  we  pray  that  they 
may  be  brought  to  know  and  to  love  thy  truth,  and 
to  be  partakers  of  thy  grace  and  of  thy  salvation  in 
Jesus  Christ. 

Have  mercy  upon  all  who  are  erring  and  straying 
from  thy  righteous  ways,  having  no  sure  hope  and 
without  God  in  the  world.  May  thy  Spirit  con- 
vince them  of  their  evil  ways,  and  fetch  them  home 
to  thy  flock,  and  to  the  fold  of  the  one  Shepherd, 
Jesus  Christ. 

Extend,  we  entreat  thee,  the  blessings  of  useful 
knowledge,  rational  freedom  and  true  religion  to  all 
the  people  of  the  earth.  May  harmony  and  friendly 
intercourse  unite  all  nations.  Preserve  them  from 
injustice,  contention  and  pride,  and  so  rule  their 
hearts  and  direct  their  ways,  that  they  may  walk 
in  love  and  dwell  in  peace.  O  hasten  the  time 
when  wars  shall  cease  in  all  the  world ;  when  na- 
tion shall  no  more  lift  up  sword  against  nation,  nor 
kingdom  against  kingdom ;  when  all  shall  submit 
to  thy  righteousness,  and  learn  war  no  more. 

Let  thy  blessing  attend  thy  word,  wherever  it  is 
preached  throughout  the  world.  From  the  rising 
of  the  sun  unto  the  going  down  of  the  same  may  thy 
name  be  great  among  the  Gentiles,  and  in  every 
place  incense  be  offered  unto  thy  name  and  a  pure 
offering.  Send  thy  word  and  the  means  of  grace  to 
all  who  are  yet  destitute,  and  make  thy  truth  to 
them  a  savor  of  life.  Arrest  the  progress  of  ungod- 
liness and  wrong,  till  the  wickedness  of  the  wicked 
shall  come  to  an  end. 

Bless  all  our  institutions  designed  for  the  spread 
of  the  gospel  in  foreign  lands  and  for  the  promotion 


120  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Saturday  Morning. 

of  truth  and  righteousness  and  peace  among  our- 
selves. 

And  now  we  desire,  O  thou  Keeper  of  Israel,  who 
never  slumberest  nor  sleepest,  to  commend  ourselves 
and  all  that  appertains  to  us  to  thy  merciful  care 
and  keeping.  Thy  power  has  preserved  us  through 
the  day  past ;  by  thy  great  mercy  defend  us,  we 
beseech  thee,  from  all  perils  and  dangers  of  this 
night,  for  the  love  of  thy  only  Son,  our  Savior 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


Second  Week.    Saturday  Morning. 

O  ETERNAL  God,  mighty  in  power,  and  of  majesty 
incomprehensible,  whom  the  heaven  of  heavens 
cannot  contain,  and  who  yet,  in  thy  wonderful 
mercy,  dost  vouchsafe  to  hear  the  prayers  of  those 
whom  Christ  has  redeemed  from  sin  and  death, 
look  in  mercy  upon  us  the  chief  of  sinners.  Grant 
us  the  aid  of  thy  Spirit,  that  we  may  approach  thee 
with  humility, — with  lips  unfeigned  and  with 
hearts  sincere,  and  in  the  name  of  Him  who  died 
for  our  sins  and  rose  again  for  our  justification. 
May  our  reliance  be  on  his  merits,  and  on  thy  pro- 
mise of  pardon  and  peace  through  faith  in  him. 
Help  us  to  pray  according  to  thy  will,  that  we  may 
obtain  mercy,  and  find  grace  to  help  us  in  every 
time  of  need.  Let  the  words  of  our  mouth  and  the 
desires  of  our  heart  be  acceptable  in  thy  sight. 

And  wilt  thou  impress  upon  our  minds  a  deep 
and  permanent  sense  of  thy  goodness.  Abundant 
are  the  mercies,  temporal  and  spiritual,  which  are 
our  happy  portion.  Through  many  dangers  and 
deaths,  seen  and  unseen,  hast  thou  conducted  us 
from  the  commencement  of  our  lives  to  this  present 
time.  Many  blessings  do  we  enjoy,  of  which  others 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  121 

Second  Week.     Saturday  Morning. 

are  deprived.  What  shall  we  render  unto  thee,  O 
Lord,  for  all  thy  benefits  !  Help  us  to  take  the 
cup  of  salvation,  and  to  call  upon  thy  name,  as 
the  Giver  of  all  good,  and  our  only  refuge  in  time 
of  need.  May  thy  goodness  which  sustained  us 
through  the  silent  watches  of  the  night,  be  our 
guide  and  protection  during  the  active  labors  of  the 
present  day.  Defend  us  from  sin,  and  from  every 
danger.  May  all  our  conduct  be  ordered  by  thy 
governance  and  righteous  in  thy  sight. 

Thou  hast  taught  us  to  make  prayers  and  suppli- 
cations, and  to  give  thanks  for  all  mankind,  and 
we  humbly  beseech  thee  for  all  sorts  and  conditions 
of  men,  that  thou  would  be  pleased  to  make  thy 
ways  known  unto  them,  thy  saving  health  unto  all 
nations.  They  are  the  work  of  thy  hand  and  the 
creatures  of  thy  care :  may  they  know  that  thou 
hast  so  loved  them,  as  to  give  thy  Son  to  die  for 
their  sins,  and  may  they  rejoice  in  thy  salvation. 

We  ask  for  the  continuance  of  thy  blessings  upon 
this  our  favored  country.  Thou  hast  distinguished 
us  by  unnumbered  mercies,  and  given  us  a  great 
name  among  the  nations  of  the  earth.  We  would 
call  to  remembrance  thy  mercies,  which  have  ever 
been  of  old.  We  have  heard  with  our  ears,  and  our 
fathers  have  declared  unto  us  the  noble  works  which 
thou  didst  in  their  days,  and  in  the  old  time  before 
them.  Be  with  us,  O  God,  and  make  us  a  nation 
fearing  thee.  Be  thou  our  safeguard  and  defence, 
May  salvation  be  to  us  for  walls ;  our  officers  be 
peace,  and  our  exactors  righteousness  :  surely  trust- 
ing in  thy  defence,  may  we  not  fear  the  power  of 
any  adversaries.  Bless  the  government  and  all  the 
people  of  the  United  States,  and  of  this  State  espe- 
cially in  which  we  live,  with  wisdom,  righteousness 
and  peace.  Give  counsel  to  our  counsellors,  and 
teach  our  senators  wisdom.  Bless  all  who  are  set 
in  authority  over  us,  and  so  guide  their  counsels 
11 


122  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Saturday  Morning. 

strengthen  their  hands,  that  the  hearts  of  the  diso- 
bedient may  be  turned  to  the  wisdom  of  the  just, 
and  our  people  serve  thee  in  quietness  and  peace. 

And  grant,  O  Lord,  that  a  sense  of  the  many  and 
great  blessings  which,  as  a  people  and  a  nation,  we 
enjoy,  may  engage  our  hearts  and  lives  in  the  ways 
of  thy  laws,  and  in  the  works  of  thy  command- 
ments. May  we  not  forget  that  it  is  thou  who 
makest  us  to  differ  from  others.  May  we  not  be 
high-minded,  but  fear.  Preserve  us  from  a  vain 
confidence  of  boasting;  from  self-dependence,  and 
from  party  dissensions.  May  we  not  use  our  liberty 
for  a  cloak  of  maliciousness,  but  follow,  after  chari- 
ty, and  the  things  which  make  for  peace.  Help  us 
to  enjoy  the  bounty  which  thy  hand  bestows,  with 
temperance,  sobriety  and  thankfulness  to  thee. 
Defend  us  from  pride,  selfishness,  and  love  of  the 
world.  Dispose  us  in  all  things  to  give  that  mea- 
sure to  others  which  we  exact  from  them,  and 
to  live  soberly,  righteously  and  godly  in  this  present 
world. 

We  ask  too  for  thy  blessing  upon  all  our  churches 
and  religious  institutions,  that  they  may  be  con- 
formed to  thy  will  and  instruments  of  promoting 
thy  truth.  Give  them  grace  to  look  with  a  single 
eye  to  thy  glory,  and  to  the  best  interests  of  man- 
kind. May  they  follow  after  the  things  wherewith 
one  may  edify  another.  Let  nothing  be  done 
through  strife  or  vainglory ;  and  let  there  be  no 
divisions  among  us,  but  help  us  rather  to  stand  fast 
in  one  spirit,  with  one  mind,  striving  together  for 
the  faith  of  the  gospel.  May  thy  truth  spread  and 
godliness  increase  throughout  the  earth,  and  all  who 
profess  the  faith  of  Christ  walk  worthy  of  their  vo- 
cation. Enlarge  the  borders  of  the  Redeemer's 
kingdom,  till  to  the  name  of  Jesus  every  knee  shall 
bow,  and  all  the  ends  of  the  earth  shall  rejoice  to 
call  him  Lord. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  123 

Second  Week.     Saturday  Evening. 

Hear  our  prayers,  O  Lord,  and  behold  us  [of  this 
family]  with  thy  love  and  favor.  Enlighten  our 
minds  with  the  truths  of  the  blessed  gospel;  graft 
in  our  hearts  the  love  of  thy  name ;  increase  in  us 
true  religion ;  nourish  us  with  all  goodness,  and  of 
thy  great  mercy  guide  and  bless  us  in  all  we  do, 
that  in  this  world  we  may  live  to  thy  glory,  and  in 
the  world  to  come  enjoy  eternal  life,  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


Second  Week.     Saturday  Evening. 

ALMIGHTY  and  overliving  God,  unto  whom  all 
hearts  are  open  and  all  desires  known,  let  our 
prayers,  we  beseech  thee,  be  as  incense  and  as 
an  evening  sacrifice.  Cleanse  our  hearts  and  sanc- 
tify our  affections,  and  let  thy  ears  be  attentive  to 
our  supplications.  May  thy  Spirit  help  us  to  ask 
for  such  things  as  are  fit  for  us  to  receive,  and 
which  we  truly  need. 

We  are  unworthy,  through  our  manifold  sins,  to 
offer  unto  thee  any  sacrifice,  or  to  ask  for  any  bles- 
sing, and  our  humblest  prayers  and  sincerest  sup- 
plications will  need  thy  pardon.  Daily  and  often 
have  we  offended  against  thee,  who  art  holy,  good 
and  merciful.  Trusting  not  in  our  own  righteous- 
ness, but  in  thy  great  mercy  through  Jesus  Christ, 
we  would  bow  this  evening  in  humble  supplication 
before  thy  throne.  Create  and  make  in  us  new  and 
contrite  hearts;  grant  us,  through  thy  grace,  re- 
pentance not  to  be  repented  of,  and  pardon  and 
remission  of  our  sins. 

Make  us  truly  sensible  of  our  wants  and  of  thy 
goodness,  and  help  us  to  cry  earnestly  unto  thee,  to 
whom  belong  mercy  and  forgiveness.  Grant  unto 
us  a  hearty  desire  to  pray,  and  let  thy  Spirit  direct 


124  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Second  Week.     Saturday  Evening. 

and  aid  our  devotions,  that  we  may  worship  thee 
in  spirit  and  in  truth.  Dispose  us  to  be  penitent 
and  humble,  and  to  serve  thee  in  all  godliness  of 
living.  May  we  be  careful  to  maintain  good  works, 
while  we  trust  only  in  the  merits  of  our  Savior. 

Give  us  grace  to  walk  before  thee  in  all  lowliness, 
meekness  and  long-suffering,  forbearing  one  another 
in  love.  Give  us  piety  and  wisdom  that  we  may 
accommodate  our  desires  and  our  whole  conduct  to 
the  state  of  life  in  which  it  shall  please  thee  to 
place  us,  ever  praying  that  thy  will  may  be  done. 
In  seasons  of  affliction  may  we  neither  despise  thy 
chastening  nor  faint  under  thy  rebukes,  but  in  our 
patience  possess  our  souls.  Under  bereavements, 
may  we  never  murmur,  nor  charge  God  foolishly ; 
but  call  to  mind  the  days  that  are  past,  and  remem- 
ber thy  mercies  which  have  ever  been  of  old,  and 
how  little  we  deserve  the  blessings  which  are  con- 
tinued to  us.  May  we  not  forget  that  we  must 
through  much  tribulation  enter  the  kingdom  of 
God,  and  that  our  afflictions  in  this  life,  which  are 
light  and  of  short  continuance,  will,  if  we  trust  in 
thee,  work  in  us  a  far  more  exceeding  and  eternal 
weight  of  glory.  From  the  sorrows  of  life  may 
we,  through  thy  grace,  gather  the  peaceable  fruits 
of  righteousness :  may  tribulation  work  in  us  pa- 
tience, and  patience  experience,  and  experience 
hope. 

But  thou  knowest,  Lord,  our  weakness,  and 
how  little  it  is  that  we  can  bear ;  if  it  be  consistent 
with  thy  wisdom,  wilt  thou  mercifully  turn  from  us 
the  sorrows  and  other  evils  of  life :  O  lead  us  not 
into  temptation,  but  deliver  us  from  evil.  And  in 
all  our  sufferings  and  distress,  may  we,  like  thy 
holy  martyr  Stephen,  raise  our  eyes  and  our  hopes 
to  Him  who  once  suffered  for  us  upon  the  cross, 
and  is  now  exalted  at  thy  right  hand :  may  we  also 
forgive  and  pray  for  those  who  do  us  wrong.  If 
thou  art  for  us,  none  can  be  effectually  against  us. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  125 

Second  Week.     Saturday  Evening. 

Help  us,  O  Lord,  in  all  things  to  live  according 
to  thy  word,  and  to  let  our  light  so  shine  before 
men,  that  they  may  see  our  good  works ;  that  they 
may  take  knowledge  that  we  have  been  with  Jesus, 
and  give  glory  to  thee  for  the  power  of  thy  grace. 
Make  us  ready  to  take  the  Savior's  cross :  may  the 
disciples  be  willing  to  be  as  their  Master,  and  the 
servants  as  their  Lord.  Set  continually  before  us 
his  holy  example,  that  we  may  walk  as  he  walked, 
and  that  the  Spirit  which  was  in  him  may  also  be 
in  us. 

And  grant,  O  Lord,  that  we  may  grow  in  grace, 
and  in  the  knowledge  of  Christ,  and  faithfully  obey 
the  gospel.  Strengthen  in  us  the  things  which  re- 
main and  are  ready  to  die.  May  we,  through  thy 
grace,  be  renewed  day  by  day,  and  continually 
increase  in  all  virtue  and  godliness  of  living. 

Make  us  thankful  for  our  religious  privileges, 
and  for  all  the  ordinances  of  the  gospel ;  and  espe- 
cially for  thy  appointment  of  one  day  in  seven  to 
be  a  season  of  holy  rest  from  worldly  cares,  and  to 
be  devoted  to  the  securing  of  that  heavenly  rest 
which  remains  for  the  people  of  God.  May  the 
Lord's  day  which  is  approaching  be  our  delight : 
prepare  and  sanctify  us  that  we  may  keep  it  holy. 
May  we  be  in  a  right  spirit  on  the  Lord's  day,  and 
experience  the  blessedness  of  those  whose  strength 
is  in  thee,  and  in  whose  heart  are  thy  ways.  By 
thy  holy  inspiration  may  we  think  those  things 
that  are  good,  and  by  thy  merciful  guidance  per- 
form them. 

Assist  all  thy  people  in  their  public  adorations 
and  praise.  May  thy  Spirit  rest  upon  thy  church- 
es, and  upon  the  ministers  of  thy  gospel.  Endue 
them  with  wisdom,  piety  and  zeal :  may  they  go 
forth  in  thy  strength  tcf  their  work,  and  thy  bless- 
ing attend  their  labors.  Let  utterance  be  given 
them,  that  they  may  open  their  mouth  boldly  and 

11* 


126  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  Christmas  Day. 

make  known  the  mystery  of  the  gospel.  Grant 
that  they  may  not  labor  in  vain,  nor  spend  their 
strength  for  naught.  Replenish  them  with  the 
truth  of  thy  doctrine,  and  adorn  them  with  inno- 
cency  of  life,  that  both  by  word  and  good  example 
they  may  faithfully  and  successfully  preach  the 
word.  Pour  upon  them,  and  upon  all  thy  people, 
every  gift  and  grace  necessary  for  the  work  of  the 
ministry ;  for  the  perfecting  of  the  saints,  and  for 
the  edifying  of  the  body  of  Christ ;  till  we  all  come, 
in  the  unity  of  the  faith  and  of  the  knowledge  of  the 
Son  of  God,  unto  the  perfect  man ; — unto  the  mea- 
sure of  the  stature  of  the  fulness  of  Christ,  through 
whom  be  rendered  unto  thee  all  might,  majesty  and 
dominion,  forever  and  ever.  Amen. 


The  most  of  the  Prayers  preceding  may  be  used  on  any  day  of  the 
week ;  and  if  found  to  be  too  long,  any  parts  of  them  may  be  used,  omit- 
ting the  rest.  The  following  are  some  shorter  Collects  or  Prayers, 
which  may  be  used  with  any  parts  of  the  foregoing,  on  particular  days 
or  occasions. 


For  Christmas  Day. 

O  LORD  God,  our  heavenly  Father,  the  Giver  of  all 
spiritual  grace,  and  the  Author  of  everlasting  life,  we 
render  thee  our  humble  and  hearty  thanks  that  thou 
didst  so  love  the  world  as  to  send  thy  only-begotten 
Son  to  take  our  nature,  to  be  born  as  an  infant,  and 
become  the  Redeemer  of  mankind  from  the  power 
of  sin  and  death:  We  thank  thee,  that  he  who  was 
in  the  form  of  God,  and  might  have  continued  equal 
with  God,  in  that  glory  which  he  had  with  thee  be- 
fore the  world  was,  for  us  men  and  for  our  salvation 
made  himself  of  no  reputation.  We  bless  thee,  O 
God,  that  he  took  not  the  nature  of  angels ;  but  that 
we  might  have  a  high  priest  touched  with  the  feel- 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  127 

For  Ash  Wednesday  or  other  Fast. 

ings  of  our  infirmities,  he  took  the  seed  of  Abraham, 
and  became  perfect  man  without  sin.  Help  us,  O 
God,  to  be  duly  thankful  for  this  unspeakable  mer- 
cy. May  glory  to  God  in  the  highest,  and  peace  on 
earth  and  good  will  towards  men,  inspire  our  hearts, 
and  shine  forth  in  our  lives.  May  the  example  of 
Christ's  humiliation  make  us  penitent  and  humble. 
Give  us  grace  that  we  may  cast  away  the  works 
of  darkness,  and  put  upon  us  the  armor  of  light ; 
now  especially,  in  this  season  of  the  year,  when  to 
us  the  Child  was  bora ;  when  to  us  the  Son  was 
given.  May  we  be  regenerate,  and  truly  thy  chil- 
dren by  adoption  and  grace ;  that  in  the  last  day, 
when  he  shall  come  again  to  judge  the  world,  we 
may  rise  to  life  immortal,  through  Him  who  liveth 
and  reigneth  with  thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  now 
and  ever.  Amen. 


For  Ash  Wednesday  or  other  Fast. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  who  hatest  no- 
thing that  thou  hast  made,  and  dost  forgive  the 
sins  of  those  who  are  truly  penitent;  who  wouldst 
not  the  death  of  a  sinner,  but  rather  that  he  should 
turn  to  thee  and  live,  mercifully  forgive  us  our 
trespasses  :  create  and  make  in  us  new  and  contrite 
hearts.  To  thee,  O  Lord,  belong  mercies  and  for- 
giveness ;  to  thee  only  it  appertaineth  to  renovate 
the  heart,  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within  us. 
Spare  us,  we  beseech  thee :  O  Lord,  spare  thy  peo- 
ple for  whom  the  Savior  shed  his  precious  blood. 
Have  mercy  upon  us,  O  God,  after  thy  great  good- 
ness ;  according  to  the  multitude  of  thy  mercies  do 
away  our  offences.  Make  us  a  clean  heart,  and  re- 
new a  right  spirit  within  us.  Turn  thou  us,  O  Lord, 
and  we  shall  be  turned ;  make  us  sensible  of  our 


128  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  Good  Friday. 

vileness,  and  of  the  wickedness  of  our  sins.  Enter 
not  into  judgment  with  us,  O  Lord,  for  in  thy  sight 
shall  no  flesh  living  be  justified..  Make  thy  face  to 
shine  upon  us,  and  be  gracious  unto  us ;  lift  upon 
us  the  light  of  thy  countenance,  and  give  us  peace. 
Give  us  grace  to  set  the  Lord  ever  before  us,  and 
to  use  such  abstinence,  that  our  flesh  may  be  sub- 
dued to  the  spirit,  and  that  we  may  ever  obey  thy 
godly  motions  in  righteousness  and  true  holiness, 
and  finally  obtain  everlasting  life,  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.  Amen. 


For  Good  Friday. 

O  LORD  God,  our  heavenly  Father,  who  of  thy 
tender  mercy  didst  give  thine  only  Son,  Jesus 
Christ,  to  suffer  death  upon  the  cross  for  our  re- 
demption; whose  love  to  us  was  so  great,  that 
whilst  we  were  yet  sinners  he  died  for  us,  behold 
us,  we  beseech  thee,  with  favor  and  compassion. 
Make  us  deeply  sensible  of  the  sins  which  caused 
him  to  bleed  and  die;  the  just  for  the  unjust. 
Raise  us,  we  beseech  thee,  O  heavenly  Father, 
from  the  death  of  sin  to  a  life  of  righteousness. 
May  we  never  by  our  transgressions  crucify  him 
afresh ;  but  sanctify  the  Lord  God  in  our  hearts, 
and  live  soberly,  righteously  and  godly  in  this  pre- 
sent world,  through  him  who  loved  us  and  gave 
himself  for  us. 

O  blessed  Lord  Jesus  Gbrjst,  who,  in  love  to  us 
unworthy  sinners,  didst  leetve  the  glories  of  thy 
heavenly  throne,  and  come  into  this  world  to  put 
away  sin  by  the  sacrifice  of  thyself;  who  didst 
become  a  man  of  sorrows  and  acquainted  with 
grief;  and  didst  humble  thyself  and  become  obedi- 
ent unto  death,  even  the  death  of  the  cross ;  spare 


GRISWOLD?S    PRAYERS.  129 

For  the  Beginning  or  Close  of  a  Year. 

us,  good  Lord ;  spare  those  for  whose  sins  thou 
didst  vouchsafe  to  bleed  and  die.  O  Lord  God, 
Lamb  of  God,  Son  of  the  Father,  who  takest  away 
the  sins  of  the  world,  have  mercy  upon  us.  Thou 
that  takest  away  the  sins  of  the  world,  receive  our 
prayer.  By  thine  agony  and  bloody  sweat ;  *  by 
thy  cross  and  passion ;  by  thy  precious  death  and 
burial ;  by  thy  triumphant  resurrection  and  gift  of 
the  Holy  Ghost,  deliver  us,  p  Lord,  from  the  guilt 
and  the  power  of  sin,  and  save  our  souls  from  eter- 
nal death. 

O  Lord,  bless  and  keep  us ;  make  thy  face  to 
shine  upon  us ;  lift  up  the  light  of  thy  countenance 
upon  us,  and  give  us  peace,  both  now  and  ever- 
more. Amen. 


For  the  Beginning  or  Close  of  a  Year. 

ADORABLE  and  ever  gracious  God,  whose  days  are 
without  end  and  whose  mercies  cannot  be  num- 
bered, thou  art  from  everlasting  to  everlasting; 
the  same  yesterday,  to-day  and  forever.  Thou 
hast  laid  the  foundations  of  the  earth,  and  the  hea- 
vens are  the  work  of  thy  hands.  They  shall  perish 
but  thou  remainest:  they  shall  all  wax  old  as  doth 
a  garment,  and  shall  be  changed ;  but  thou  art  the 
same,  and  thy  years  shall  not  fail.  Though  days, 
and  months,  and  years  do  pass  away,  and  time  it- 
self shall  be  no  longer,  thy  kingdom  shall  endure 
forever  and  ever.  Behold  in  mercy  thy  needy, 
dependent  and  perishing  creatures,  whose  life  is 
but  a  span,  and  whose  age  is  even  as  nothing  in 
respect  of  thee.  It  is  of  thy  mercy  that  we  are  not 
consumed,  and  because  thy  compassions  fail  not. 
Thou  boldest  our  souls  in  life,  and  to  thee  we  lift 
our  eyes  as  the  only  hope  of  all  the  ends  of  the 


130  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  a  Family  under  Afflictive  Visitation. 

earth.  We  thank  thee,  O  blessed  Lord  God,  that 
while  another  year  has  [nearly]  passed  away,  and 
thousands  and  tens  of  thousands  of  precious  souls 
have  departed  to  the  eternal  world,  we  yet  survive ; 
that  we  have  been,  by  thy  merciful  providence, 
conducted  through  a  thousand  perils  to  this  present 
time.  Help  us,  O  heavenly  Father,  so  to  number 
our  days,  and  so  duly  to  consider  the  shortness  and 
uncertainty  of  human  life,  that  we  may  apply  our 
hearts  to  true  wisdom.  Shouldst  thou,  O  Lord,  in 
thy  goodness,  let  us  alone  another  year  also,  give 
us  grace,  we  beseech  thee,  to  serve  thee  better  than 
in  times  past.  Create  us  again  unto  good  works, 
and  renew  us  day  by  day.  Our  life  and  breath  are 
thine;  our  times  are  in  thy  hand;  and  may  our 
whole  heart  and  soul  be  devoted  unto  thee,  and  we 
be  ever  prepared  to  say,  To  live  is  Christ,  and  to 
die  is  gain.  Support  us  in  all  dangers,  both  of  soul 
and  body.  Lead  us  not  into  temptation ;  but  deli- 
ver us  from  evil.  We  ask  it  in  the  name,  and 
through  the  mediation  of  our  Lord  and  Savior, 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


For  a  Family  under  Afflictive  Visitation. 

O  FATHER  of  mercies  and  God  of  all  comfort,  who 
art  our  only  hope  in  time  of  need,  and  who  hast 
taught  us  in  thy  holy  word  that  thou  dost  not, 
without  wise  and  good  intentions,  afflict  or  grieve 
the  children  of  men,  mercifully  behold  us  in  this 
season  of  sorrow  and  distress.  Lord,  hear  our  sup- 
plications and  prayers,  and  let  thine  ears  consider 
well  the  voice  of  our  complaint.  Righteous  art 
thou,  O  God,  in  all  thy  ways ;  just  in  all  thy  deal- 
ings with  the  sons  of  men.  Sickness  and  pains 
and  death  are  the  dispensations  of  thy  hand,  and 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  131 

A  Prayer  for  Persons  newly  Married. 

are  less  than  our  sins  deserve.  Wherefore  should 
a  living  man  complain  ! 

Do  thou,  O  God,  who  despisest  not  the  sighing 
of  a  contrite  heart,  nor  the  desire  of  such  as  are 
sorrowful,  mercifully  assist  us  in  the  prayers  which, 
in  this  time  of  trouble  and  adversity,  we  would 
make  before  thee.  Turn  from  us,  we  beseech  thee, 
the  evils  which  we  most  justly  have  deserved ;  and 
grant  that  in  all  our  troubles  we  may  put  our  trust 
in  thy  mercy,  and  be  submissive  in  heart  and  life 
to  thy  holy  will.  Sanctify  to  our  spiritual  and 
eternal  good  thy  fatherly  correction.  Give  us  grace, 
O  heavenly  Father,  to  be  patient  under  affliction, 
and  resigned  to  thy  holy  will.  May  we  see  and 
know,  to  our  comfort,  that  if  God  be  for  us,  nothing 
can  be  against  us ;  that  neither  tribulation  or  dis- 
tress can  separate  us  from  the  love  of  Christ.  May 
such  be  our  improvement  under  thy  chastening 
hand,  that  we  may  find  it  good  for  us  to  have  been 
afflicted. 

And  we  commend  to  thy  fatherly  goodness  all  of 
our  fellow-creatures  who  are  in  any  way  afflicted 
or  distressed  in  mind,  body  or  estate :  that  it  may 
please  thee  to  comfort  and  relieve  them,  according 
to  their  several  necessities,  giving  them  patience 
under  their  sufferings,  and  a  happy  issue  out  of  all 
their  afflictions.  Hear  us,  O  thou  God  of  mercy, 
for  the  sake  of  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  Persons  newly  Married  ;  which,  with  very  little  alteration, 
may  be  used  by  them. 

O  MERCIFUL  Lord  and  heavenly  Father,  the  Giver 
of  all  good  things,  and  the  Author  of  all  blessedness, 
who,  of  thy  bountiful  goodness  towards  mankind, 
hast  instituted  the  holy  estate  of  matrimony,  and 


132  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  Persons  newly  Married. 

by  the  union  of  husband  and  wife  hast  provided 
for  the  peace  and  order  and  happiness  of  society  in 
this  world,  behold  us,  we  beseech  thee,  with  thy 
favor  and  blessing  at  this  time,  and  on  this  occa- 
sion. Grant  that  these  thy  servants,  who  in  thy 
fear  and  presence,  and  according  to  thy  holy  ordi- 
nance, have  mutually  pledged  their  love  and  fidelity, 
and  have  been  united  together  in  marriage,  may  en- 
joy the  perpetual  smiles  of  thy  heavenly  benediction. 
Bless  them,  O  God,  in  their  health  and  their  friends  ; 
in  their  family  and  affections ;  in  their  goods,  and 
in  all  the  business  of  life.  Guide  and  bless  them  in 
all  that  they  design,  and  all  they  do.  Defend  and 
preserve  them  from  sin,  and  from  all  the  evils  and 
calamities  of  life.  May  they  ever  live  in  perfect 
love  and  peace  together,  sympathizing  in  all  the 
pains  and  all  the  endearments  of  life;  and  find 
their  greatest  earthly  happiness  in  making  each 
other  happy.  In  their  fidelity,  may  they  find  per- 
fect confidence;  in  temperance,  health;  in  honest 
industry,  riches ;  and  in  virtuous,  godly  living,  may 
they  find  comfort  in  this  life,  and  the  sure  hope  of 
a  better. 

Wilt  thou,  O  merciful  God,  enlighten  their  minds 
by  the  doctrines  of  eternal  life,  revealed  in  Jesus 
Christ,  and  make  them  happy  subjects  of  thy  saving 
grace ;  that,  being  married  in  the  Lord,  they  may 
live  to  him.  May  they  view  the  married  state  as  a 
great  mystery,  symbolizing  the  union  between 
Christ  and  his  church.  As  Christ  loved  the  church, 
and  gave  himself  for  it,  may  the  husband  love  his 
wife,  even  as  himself,  and  the  wife  see  that  she 
reverence  her  husband. 

May  they  love  and  cherish  each  other  in  all 
the  cares  and  concerns  of  life;  and  counsel  and 
strengthen  each  other  in  every  duty  of  religion. 

O  God  the  Father,  God  the  Son,  God  the  Holy 
Ghost,  bless,  preserve  and  keep  them.  Grant  that 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  133 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  by  Parishioners  for  their  Minister. 

they  may  so  live  together  in  this  world,  that  in  the 
world  to  come  they  may  enjoy  life  everlasting; 
through  our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  by  Parishioners  for  their  Minister. 

O  MERCIFUL  God,  Sanctifier  of  the  faithful,  the 
Giver  of  all  good,  whose  ears  are  open  to  the  prayers 
of  those  who  ask  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  cleanse 
the  thoughts  of  our  hearts  by  the  inspiration  of  thy 
Holy  Spirit.  Mercifully  assist  us  in  these  our  sup- 
plications and  prayers,  and  help  us  to  ask  for  such 
things  as  shall  please  thee.  Grant  us  true  repent- 
ance, that  we  may  obtain  of  thee,  the  God  of  all 
mercy,  perfect  remission  and  forgiveness.  Give  us 
hearts,  O  Lord,  to  be  thankful  for  thy  manifold 
goodness  to  us  and  to  all  men.  Make  us  duly 
thankful  that  we  live  in  a  land  where  the  gospel  of 
our  blessed  Redeemer  is  faithfully  preached,  and 
taught  from  house  to  house ;  that  thy  holy  word, 
written  for  our  learning,  is  in  our  hands ;  and  we 
have  the  inestimable  privilege  of  searching  for  our- 
selves those  Scriptures  which  will  make  us  wise 
unto  salvation,  and  help  us  to  know  the  certainty 
of  those  things  wherein  we  have  been  instructed. 
We  thank  thee,  O  God,  for  the  means  of  grace,  for 
the  ordinances  of  religion,  and  for  all  the  privileges 
of  thy  sanctuary.  We  bless  thy  holy  name  for  the 
gift  of  thy  only  Son  to  be  our  Savior,  and  the  author 
of  everlasting  life ;  who,  after  he  had  made  perfect 
our  redemption,  sent  his  ministers  into  all  the  world 
to  preach  his  gospel  to  every  creature.  We  bless 
thee,  that  thou  art  still  graciously  pleased  to  call 
others  to  the  same  office  and  ministry,  who  are 
continually  laboring  in  word  and  doctrine.  Make 
us  thankful  that  our  teachers  are  not  removed  into 
12 


134  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  by  Parishioners  for  their  Minister. 

a  corner,  but  that  our  eyes  see  our  teachers,  and 
our  ears  hear  their  words,  instructing  us  in  the 
right  way,  and  exhorting  us  to  walk  therein,  and 
that  we  turn  not  to  the  right  hand  or  to  the  left. 
Give  us  grace,  we  beseech  thee,  to  profit  by  their 
ministry ;  may  thy  word  spoken  in  our  ear  sink 
deep  in  our  heart,  and  bring  forth  in  us  the  fruit  of 
good  living. 

And,  O  gracious  God,  wilt  thou  send  down  upon 
the  ministers  of  thy  gospel,  and  upon  the  congrega- 
tions committed  to  their  charge,  the  healthful  spirit 
of  thy  grace.  Pour  upon  them  the  continual  dew 
of  thy  blessing.  Give  grace,  O  heavenly  Father,  to 
all  bishops  and  other  ministers,  that  they  may,  both 
by  their  life  and  doctrine,  set  forth  thy  true  and 
lively  word,  and  rightly  and  duly  administer  the 
ordinances  of  thy  gospel.  And  especially,  O  Lord, 
and  most  earnestly  do  we  ask  thy  blessing  upon 
him  who  is  appointed  to  be  our  spiritual  ruler  and 
guide ;  who  labors  among  us  in  word  and  doctrine, 
and  breaks  to  us  the  bread  of  life.  Thou  hast 
commanded  us  to  remember  those  who  have  the  rule 
over  us,  and  have  spoken  unto  us  thy  word ;  for 
they  watch  for  our  souls,  as  they  who  must  give  ac- 
count to  thee  of  their  fidelity.  Him  who  rules  over 
us,  and  watches  for  our  souls,  would  we,  O  blessed 
Lord,  remember  in  these  our  prayers ;  beseeching 
thee  to  rule  his  heart,  to  strengthen  his  hands  and 
bless  his  labors.  His  best  gifts  and  acquirements 
are  our  gain  :  should  he  lose  his  labors,  we  must 
lose  our  souls.  Do  thou,  the  God  of  all  mercy  and 
grace,  who  hast  given  this  treasure  in  earthen  ves- 
sels, and  who  alone  canst  make  the  frailty  of  man 
sufficient  for  such  a  ministry,  endue  him,  our  be- 
loved pastor,  with  every  gift  and  grace  necessary 
to  the  full  and  faithful  performance  of  all  the  duties 
of  his  office.  Awaken  in  his  mind  a  holy  zeal  for 
thy  glory,  and  for  the  salvation  of  men.  Help  him 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  135 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  by  Parishioners  for  their  Minister. 

to  devote  himself,  and  all  his  powers  and  faculties, 
to  thee,  in  the  work  of  his  ministry.  Enlighten  his 
mind  with  the  truths  of  thy  word,  and  with  the 
doctrines  of  eternal  life.  May  thy  Holy  Spirit  be 
his  teacher,  and  bring  to  his  remembrance  whatever 
is  profitable  for  doctrine,  for  reproof,  for  correction 
and  for  instruction  in  righteousness.  Wilt  thou,  O 
gracious  God,  be  ever  with  him  in  performing  the 
duties  of  his  ministry.  Support  him  under  all  the 
discouragements  which  may  intercept  his  way. 
Give  him  patience  and  strength  in  all  the  painful 
labors  of  his  office,  and  wisdom  rightly  to  divide 
the  word  of  truth,  and  to  give  to  all  their  portion 
of  meat  in  due  season.  Remove  from  him  the  fear 
of  man ;  and  give  him  utterance  that  he  may  open 
his  mouth  boldly  to  make  known  the  mystery  of 
the  gospel,  and  shun  not  to  declare  all  the  counsel 
of  God.  Grant  him  the  comfort  of  seeing  thy  work 
prosper  in  his  hand ;  may  many  souls,  by  his  labors 
and  thy  blessing  converted  to  thee,  be  his  crown  of 
rejoicing. 

And  wilt  thou,  O  Lord,  watch  over  him  for  good. 
May  his  life  be  precious  in  thy  sight.  Preserve,  we 
beseech  thee,  his  health  and  strength.  Shield  him 
from  sorrows  and  perils  and  calamitous  events,  and 
grant  him  such  temporal  comforts  as  may  be  con- 
venient and  useful,  and  encourage  him  in  his  labor 
of  love.  Bless  him  in  his  house,  [in  his  family,] 
and  in  his  connections.  May  he  long  continue  to 
labor  successfully  in  building  up  the  Redeemer's 
kingdom  and  turning  many  to  righteousness ;  and 
at  last,  having  fought  a  good  fight,  and  finished  his 
course  with  joy,  may  he  receive  the  crown  of 
righteousness  laid  up  for  him  in  thy  heavenly 
kingdom. 

And  give  us  grace,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee, 
rightly  and  truly  to  profit  by  his  ministry,  and  to 
do  all  that  is  in  our  power  to  hold  up  his  hand,  and 


136  ORISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

To  be  used  in  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

aid  him  in  the  arduous  duties  of  his  pastoral  care, 
that  he  may  do  them  with  joy  and  not  with  grief. 
May  his  patient  labor,  for  our  benefit,  fill  our  hearts 
with  grateful  affection,  and  with  that  love  which  is 
not  in  word  and  tongue  only,  but  in  deed  and  in 
truth. 

Hear  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  for  the  sake 
of  thy  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ,  in  whose  name 
and  words  we  further  pray : — 

Our  Father  who  art,  <fcc.     Amen. 


The  following  prayers  are  more  general,  and  may  be  'used  in  fami- 
lies, or  by  companies  of  Christians  in  meeting's  for  Prayer,  and  on  other 
occasions. 

RIGHTEOUS,  adorable  and  everliving  God,  in  whom 
we  live  and  move  and  have  our  being ;  whose  good- 
ness is,  like  thy  power,  unbounded,  behold  in  mercy 
the  souls  who  are  here  before  thee.  We  approach 
thee,  O  God,  as  fallen,  sinful  creatures,  unworthy 
to  lift  our  eyes  to  a  righteous  God  in  prayer.  Trust- 
ing not  in  our  own  righteousness,  but  in  thy  mani- 
fold and  great  mercies,  and  the  infinite  merits  of  a 
Savior's  blood,  we  beseech  thee  to  cleanse  us  from 
sin,  and  behold  us  in  love.  Help  us,  with  humble 
reverence,  religious  awe,  and  praying  hearts,  in  his 
prevailing  name,  to  come  before  thee.  Grant  us, 
O  Lord,  such  a  right  view  of  thy  justice  and  thy 
mercy,  that  we  may  fear  without  despair,  and 
hope  without  presumption. 

Let  thy  Holy  Spirit  be  with  us  to  help  our  in- 
firmities, to  enliven  our  devotion,  to  reclaim  our 
wandering  thoughts,  and  raise  our  affections  from 
the  world  to  thee.  Assist  us  mercifully,  O  Lord,  in 
our  supplications  and  prayers ;  raise  our  hopes  and 
dispose  our  ways  towards  the  attainment  of  ever- 
lasting salvation.  May  we  love  the  things  which 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  137 

To  be  used  in  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

thou  commandest,  and  desire  those  which  thou  dost 
promise;  that  so,  among  the  manifold  changes  of 
this  world,  our  hearts  may  surely  there  be  fixed, 
where  true  joys  are  to  be  found.  Give  us  grace  to 
cast  away  the  works  of  darkness  and  put  upon  us 
the  armor  of  light.  In  all  time  of  our  tribulation, 
in  all  time  of  our  prosperity,  in  the  hour  of  death, 
and  in  the  day  of  judgment,  support  us  with  thy 
grace,  preserve  us  from  pride,  uphold  us  with  thy 
spirit,  and  save  our  souls,  in  Jesus  Christ. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to  hear  our  prayers,  and 
accept  of  our  intercessions  for  all  who  desire,  and 
all  who  need  them.  Extend  the  light  of  thy  gospel 
through  the  darkness  of  this  sinful  world,  and  grant 
that  the  knowledge  of  Christ,  and  the  doctrines  of 
life  eternal,  may  spread  more  and  more,  till  all  the 
ends  of  the  earth  shall  see  the  salvation  that  is  in 
Jesus  Christ. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to  inspire  continually 
the  universal  church  with  the  spirit  of  truth,  unity 
and  concord ;  and  grant  that  all  they  who  do  con- 
fess thy  name  may  agree  in  the  truth  of  thy  holy 
word,  and  live  in  harmony  and  godly  love ;  may 
they  hold  the  true  faith  in  unity  of  spirit,  in  the 
bond  of  peace,  and  in  righteousness  of  -life.  And 
we  beseech  thee  so  to  dispose  the  hearts  of  all  Chris- 
tian rulers,  that  they  may  truly  and  impartially 
administer  justice,  to  the  suppression  of  wickedness 
and  vice,  and  to  the  maintenance  of  true  religion 
and  virtue.  May  peace  and  harmony,  and  the 
blessings  of  true  liberty,  equal  laws,  and  pure  and 
undefiled  religion,  be  extended  to  all  the  nations  of 
the  earth. 

Bless,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  the  people  of  this 
our  country  with  prosperity  and  peace.  Inspire 
them  with  thankfulness  to  thee,  for  thy  manifold 
and  great  mercies,  and  cause  them  to  show  their 
sense  of  thy  goodness  by  living  according  to  thy 


138  GRJSWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

To  be  used  in  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

righteous  laws.  May  thy  heavenly  wisdom,  and 
thy  holy,  protecting  providence,  guide  and  govern 
those  who  are  in  authority  over  us.  May  it  please 
thee  to  bless  and  prosper  all  their  ministrations,  to 
the  advancement  of  thy  glory,  the  good  of  thy 
church,  and  to  the  honor,  safety,  and  welfare  of  thy 
people :  and  grant  that  peace  and  happiness,  truth 
and  justice,  religion  and  piety  may  be  established 
among  us  for  all  generations. 

Extend,  O  Lord,  thy  heavenly  benediction  to  the 
spiritual  rulers  set  in  thy  church.  Give  grace,  we 
humbly  beseech  thee,  to  all  the  ministers  of  thy 
gospel  of  every  grade,  and  in  all  their  various  fields 
of  labor;  and  grant  that  they  may,  both  by  their 
life  and  doctrine,  set  forth  thy  true  and  lively 
word;  rightly  and  truly  administer  all  the  ordi- 
nances of  our  Savior,  Christ ;  and  be  instruments, 
through  thy  grace,  of  turning  the  hearts  of  the  dis- 
obedient to  the  wisdom  of  the  just,  and  of  declaring 
to  ail  who  hav<»  ears  to  hear,  the  whole  counsel  of 
God. 

May  it  please  thee,  O  Lord,  to  give  to  all  thy 
people  increase  of  grace,  to  hear  meekly  thy  word, 
and  to  receive  it  with  pure  affection,  and  to  bring 
forth  the  fruits  of  the  spirit.  May  it  please  thee 
to  bring  into  the  way  of  truth  all  such  as  have 
erred  and  are  deceived ;  to  strengthen  such  as  do 
stand;  to  comfort  and  help  the  weak-hearted;  to 
raise  up  those  who  fall,  and  to  subdue  our  spiritual 
enemies.  And  we  most  humbly  beseech  thee  of  thy 
goodness,  O  Lord,  to  comfort  and  succor  all  those 
who,  in  this  transitory  life,  are  in  trouble,  sorrow, 
need,  sickness,  or  in  any  other  adversity ;  giving 
them  patience  and  resignation  under  their  suffer- 
ings, and  wisdom  and  grace  to  make  a  right  im- 
provement from  their  afflictions. 

May  thy  gracious  ears,  O  Lord,  be  open  to  all 
who  seek  thy  face  in  prayer.  We  pray  thee  to  en- 


GRISWOLD'S   PRAYERS.  139 

To  be  used  in  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

lighten  and  comfort  those  who  are  too  fearful  of  thy 
terror,  and  distrustful  of  thy  mercy.  The  bruised 
reed  thou  wilt  not  break;  a  broken  and  contrite 
heart  thou  wilt  not  despise.  May  all  who  mourn 
in  Zion  find  thee  a  God  of  refuge ;  may  they  dwell 
in  peace,  feeling  thy  pardon,  supported  by  thy  Spi- 
rit, absolved  by  thy  sentence,  and  saved  by  thy 
mercy.  O  may  we  not,  for  any  troubles  of  life,  or 
for  any  allurements  of  the  world,  cast  away  our 
confidence  in  thee,  or  place  it  in  any  other.  We 
offer  these  our  supplications  and  prayers  in  the 
name  of  Jesus  Christ ;  and  conclude  them  with  the 
words  which  he  has  taught  us : 
Our  Father  who  art,  &c.  Amen. 


ALMIGHTY  and  everliving  God,  unto  whom  all 
hearts  are  open,  all  desires  known,  and  from  whom 
no  secrets  are  hid,  behold  in  mercy  thy  dependent 
creatures,  who  desire,  with  all  humility  and  adora- 
tion, to  approach  thy  gracious  throne.  We  beseech 
thee  to  hear  our  prayers,  and  pardon  our  sins. 
Create  and  make  in  us  new  and  contrite  hearts, 
and  give  us  such  sincere  repentance,  that  we  may 
obtain  of  thee,  the  God  of  all  mercy,  perfect  remis- 
sion and  forgiveness. 

We  adore  thee,  O  God,  for  thine  infinite  perfec- 
tions; we  bless  thee  for  thy  great  and  manifold 
mercies.  With  hearts  united,  we  would  render 
unto  thee  humble  and  hearty  thanks,  for  all  thy 
goodness  and  loving  kindness  to  us  and  to  all  man- 
kind. We  thank  thee  for  our  life,  and  for  all  the 
blessings  which  add  to  our  comfort :  that  our  lives, 
so  unprofitable  to  thee,  are  still  continued ;  that  we 
have  been  preserved,  through  various  perils,  and 
conducted,  by  unnumbered  mercies,  safely  to  the 
present  time.  We  thank  thee  for  this  present  op- 


140  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

To  be  used  in  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

portunity  and  privilege  of  assembling  in  thy  name 
and  presence ;  and  for  the  comforting  doctrines  of 
life  and  peace  contained  in  thy  holy  word.  We 
praise  thee,  O  God,  that  thou  hast  laid  help  on  one 
who  is  mighty ;  that  thou  hast  so  loved  the  world ; 
hast  had  such  compassion  upon  the  fallen  race  of 
men,  as  to  give  thine  only  Son  to  be  our  Savior ; 
that  through  the  merits  of  his  sacrifice  thou  canst 
be  just,  and  yet  be  the  justifier  of  those  who  believe 
in  Jesus  Christ ;  and  that  we  are  called  to  a  know- 
ledge of  thy  grace  and  faith  in  thee.  Make  us  sen- 
sible of  thy  goodness  in  giving  us  such  gracious 
means  and  frequent  opportunities  of  religious  im- 
provement. Blessed  be  thy  name  for  thy  forbear- 
ing mercy ;  for  thy  patient  goodness  to  creatures  so 
undeserving :  for  the  invitations  of  thy  word,  and 
for  thy  promises  of  salvation  and  eternal  life  in  Je- 
sus Christ.  We  beseech  thee  to  impress  thy  saving 
truth  upon  our  minds ;  grant  us  that  lively,  holy 
faith  which  renews  the  heart;  and  whilst  we  live, 
may  we  live  to  thee.  Do  thou,  the  Lord  of  all 
power  and  might,  the  author  and  giver  of  all  good 
things,  graft  in  our  hearts  the  love  of  thy  name ; 
increase  in  us  pure  and  undefiled  religion ;  nou- 
rish us  with  the  lively  truth  of  thy  holy  word, 
filling  our  soul  with  goodness;  and  of  thy  great 
mercy  dispose  our  hearts,  and  direct  our  ways,  to- 
wards the  attainment  of  everlasting  salvation. 

Give  us  grace,  O  Lord,  to  love  thy  statutes,  and 
to  walk  faithfully  in  the  way  of  thy  commandments. 
Incline  our  heart  unto  thy  testimonies.  Turn  away 
our  eyes  from  all  sinful  vanities,  and  quicken  us  in 
the  way  that  we  should  go.  Assist  us  in  all  we  do 
with  thy  heavenly  grace,  and  dispose  our  ways 
towards  the  attainment  of  everlasting  salvation, 
that  among  all  the  perils  of  this  changing  world,  our 
hearts  may  be  steadfastly  fixed  upon  the  unchang- 
ing glories  of  the  world  to  come.  May  we  follow 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  141 

To  be  used  m  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

the  steps  of  our  blessed  Savior  who  once  came  into 
this  world  to  visit  us  in  great  humility ;  like  him 
be  unwearied  in  well  doing;  that  when  he  shall 
come  again,  in  his  glorious  majesty,  to  judge  the 
quick  and  the  dead,  we  may  be  found  acceptable  in 
thy  sight,  and  receive  the  blessing  which  he  shall 
pronounce  to  those  who  love  and  fear  thee. 

And  accept,  O  Lord,  of  our  intercessions  for  all 
our  fellow-men.  Extend,  we  beseech  thee,  the 
knowledge  of  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  saving  truths 
of  thy  blessed  word,  through  all  the  nations  of  the 
earth.  May  thy  gospel  be  spread  till  it  is  preached 
to  every  creature,  and  in  an  honest  and  good  heart 
by  all  received.  O  may  thy  kingdom  come  and  its 
power  increase,  till  thy  will  is  done  on  earth  as  it 
is  in  heaven.  Awaken  in  the  impenitent  a  just 
sense  of  thy  power  and  of  thy  mercy.  Let  the 
wicked  forsake  his  way,  and  the  unrighteous  man 
his  thoughts;  may  they  return  unto  the  Lord,  who 
will  have  mercy  upon  them,  and  to  God,  who  will 
abundantly  pardon.  May  we  and  all  men  seek 
thee  while  thou  mayst  be  found,  and  call  upon 
thee  while  thou  art  near,  and  partake  in  the  bene- 
fits of  thy  everlasting  covenant,  even  the  sure  mer- 
cies of  David. 

Give  us  hearts,  O  Lord,  to  feel,  and  to  pray  for 
all  the  sons  and  daughters  of  sorrow.  May  they 
remember  the  exhortation,  not  to  despise  the  chas- 
tening of  the  Lord,  nor  faint  when  rebuked  of  him ; 
and,  knowing  that  whom  the  Lord  loveth  he  chas- 
teneth,  may  they  trust  in  thy  mercy  and  be  resigned 
to  thy  will.  Behold,  O  Lord,  in  mercy  them  who 
are  visited  with  sickness.  May  they  bow  with 
submission  under  thy  rod,  knowing  who  hath  ap- 
pointed it,  and  be  enabled,  through  thy  grace,  to 
see  wisdom  and  goodness  in  all  thy  dealings.  May 
they  know,  in  a  holy,  lively  faith,  that  to  live  is 
Christ,  to  die  is  gain. 


142  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

To  be  used  in  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

We  commend  ourselves,  O  heavenly  Father,  to  thy 
holy,  protecting  providence.  Wilt  thou  watch  over 
us  for  good,  and  direct  and  bless  us  in  all  we  do. 

O  thou  blessed  Savior  of  a  sinful  world,  who  for 
us  men  and  for  our  redemption  came  down  from 
heaven ;  lived  for  our  example ;  was  delivered  for 
our  offences,  and  raised  for  our  justification,  help 
us  to  walk  in  thy  steps,  and  to  serve  thee  as  our 
Lord  and  Master,  doing  the  things  which  thou 
commandest. 

O  thou  Holy  Spirit  of  the  Father,  and  Spirit  of 
the  Son,  Sanctifier  of  the  faithful,  visit  us,  we  pray 
thee,  with  thy  love  and  favor.  Open  our  under- 
standing, that  we  may  know  and  receive  the  truth 
as  it  is  in  Jesus  Christ.  Dwell  in  our  hearts,  and 
sanctify  our  desires  and  all  our  affections. 

O  blessed  Lord  God  and  Savior,  who  hast  given 
us  grace  at  this  time  to  make  our  common  supplica- 
tions unto  thee,  and  dost  promise,  that  when  two  or 
three  are  gathered  together  in  thy  name,  thou  wilt 
grant  their  requests ;  fulfil  now,  O  Lord,  we  hum- 
bly beseech  thee,  the  desires  and  petitions  of  thy 
servants,  as  may  be  most  expedient  for  them,  grant- 
ing us  in  this  world  knowledge  of  thy  truth,  and  in 
the  world  to  come  life  everlasting,  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  blessed  Lord  and  Redeemer.  Amen. 


O  ETERNAL  God,  whose  wise  and  unfailing  provi- 
dence orders  all  things  in  heaven  and  on  earth,  who 
hast  compassion  upon  the  sons  of  men,  and  hast 
graciously  promised  to  hear  the  prayers  of  those 
who  ask  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  we  desire, 
with  reverence  and  adoration,  to  present  before 
thee  our  humble  supplications.  Let  thy  merciful 
ears  be  open  to  our  petitions,  and  that  we  obtain 
our  requests,  help  us,  we  beseech  thee,  to  ask  for 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  143 

To  be  used  in  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

such  things,  and  with  such  hearts,  as  shall  please 
thee.  We  are  unworthy,  through  our  manifold 
sins,  to  offer  unto  thee  any  sacrifice.  We  have  daily 
offended  against  thee,  who  art  holy,  just  and  good. 
We  have  sinned  and  done  wickedly  in  departing 
from  thy  precepts  arid  thy  judgments.  We  have 
erred  and  strayed  from  thy  righteous  ways,  and 
have  followed  too  much  the  evil  devices  and  desires 
of  our  own  hearts.  We  have  left  undone  what  our 
duty  required,  and  have  done  those  things  which 
thy  law  forbids.  Do  thou,  O  heavenly  Father,  who 
hast  promised  forgiveness  to  those  who  confess  and 
forsake  their  sins,  have  mercy  upon  us ;  pardon  our 
offences,  and  deliver  us  from  the  condemnation  and 
the  power  of  sin.  Sanctify  our  hearts,  and,  by  thy 
Holy  Spirit,  work  in  us  to  will  and  to  do  what  is 
pleasing  in  thy  sight. 

We  bless  thy  holy  name,  that  to  the  Lord  our 
God  belong  mercies  and  forgiveness ;  that  through 
the  merits  of  a  righteous  Savior  thou  art  ever  ready 
to  receive  a  returning,  penitent  sinner.  We  praise 
thee  for  thy  adorable  attributes  of  power  and  wis- 
dom, benevolence  and  mercy.  We  thank  thee  for 
unnumbered  favors  vouchsafed  to  us  and  to  all 
mankind;  for  the  gospel  preached  to  sinful  crea- 
tures, and  for  the  day  and  means  of  grace  and 
salvation.  We  thank  thee  that  our  lives  are  still 
preserved ;  and  that  we  are  permitted,  once  more, 
to  lay  aside  our  worldly  cares ;  to  meet  here  in  thy 
presence ;  [to  read  thy  word ;]  to  talk  of  thy  mer- 
cies, and  to  address  thee  in  prayer  and  praise. 
Grant,  O  Lord,  that  we  may  pass  this  time  of  our 
being  together  as  becometh  weak  and  dependent 
creatures,  in  the  presence  of  a  righteous,  holy,  and 
heart-searching  God.  Sanctify  all  our  affections; 
give  us  right  views  of  thy  character,  of  the  Savior's 
merits,  and  of  our  duty.  Preserve  us  from  all  self- 
righteousness,  vanity  and  pride.  May  it  be  our 


144  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

To  he  used  in  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

chief  desire  to  honor  thee,  and  to  save  ourselves 
and  others.  Grant  that  all  things  may  be  done 
decently  and  in  good  order,  to  thy  glory  and  to  our 
edification.  May  our  mouth  be  exercised  in  wis- 
dom, and  our  talking  be  of  thy  judgments.  In 
every  duty  of  prayer  or  praise ;  of  reading  thy  word 
or  speaking  of  thy  mercies,  let  thy  Holy  Spirit  be 
with  us,  to  strengthen  our  faith,  to  restrain  our 
wandering  thoughts,  to  enliven  our  devotion,  and  to 
fix  our  attention  and  our  desires  on  spiritual  things, 
and  to  unite  our  hearts  in  Christian  love.  Our 
hearts  are  in  thy  hand ;  our  wants  and  our  infirmi- 
ties are  all  before  thee.  Thou  knowest  our  desires 
and  our  necessities  before  we  ask,  and  our  ignorance 
in  asking.  O  gracious  God,  wilt  thou  do  for  us  and 
work  in  us  whatever  thou  seest  fitting  for  our  pre- 
sent need,  and  our  eternal  good.  Increase  in  us 
faith  and  hope  and  charity,  and  may  we  never  for- 
get that  the  greatest  of  these  is  charity.  O  shed 
abroad  thy  love  in  our  hearts ;  may  that  spirit  be 
in  us  which  was  in  our  Savior  Christ ;  that  meek- 
ness and  humility,  that  forgiving  temper  and  spirit 
of  love.  May  our  benevolent  affections  be  raised  in 
thankfulness  to  thee,  and  fall,  as  the  dew  of  heaven, 
upon  our  fellow-men. 

Assist,  O  Lord,  and  hear  our  supplications  for  all 
mankind.  Bless  thy  church  universal,  wherever 
dispersed,  throughout  the  world.  May  mercy  and 
peace  be  upon  the  whole  Israel  of  God.  Prosper 
thy  word,  wherever  it  is  spoken,  and  send  it  where 
it  is  not  heard.  Cause  thy  face  to  shine  upon  thy 
chosen  people,  and  grant  that  thy  way  may  be 
known  through  all  the  earth,  and  thy  saving  health 
among  all  nations.  May  the  borders  of  Zion  be 
enlarged,  till  the  kingdoms  of  the  earth  become  the 
kingdoms  of  the  Lord  and  of  his  Christ,  and  all 
shall  know  thee  from  the  least  to  the  greatest. 
Bless  all  who  name  the  name  of  Christ,  with  every 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  145 

To  be  used  in  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

gift  and  every  grace.  Revive  thy  work  in  the  midst 
of  the  years.  Pour  out  of  thy  Spirit,  O  blessed  Lord, 
amongst  us.  Awaken  the  zeal  of  thy  people :  bless 
the  labors  of  thy  ministering  servants.  May  all 
our  churches  arise  and  shine,  and  be  the  salt  of  the 
earth ;  and  may  the  light  of  gospel  truth  dispel  the 
darkness  of  sin  and  unbelief.  Increase  and  bless 
the  means  which  are  used  to  extend  the  knowledge 
of  Christ  and  the  doctrines  of  life.  Wilt  thou,  O 
Lord,  add  to  thy  church  daily  and  in  great  num- 
bers such  as  should  be  saved.  May  they  who  are 
now  living  in  sin  be  renewed  in  heart,  awakened 
to  righteousness,  and  saved  in  Christ  forever. 
Awaken  in  our  minds  a  deep  concern  for  the  pe- 
rishing souls  of  our  fellow-men.  O  blessed  Lord, 
who  died  for  their  sins,  save  them  from  perdition. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  mercifully  to  hear 
these  our  supplications  and  prayers.  Pardon  our 
cold  affections  and  wandering  thoughts,  and  fulfil 
our  desires  and  petitions  in  such  manner  as  may 
be  most  expedient  for  us;  granting  us,  in  this 
world,  knowledge  of  thy  truth,  and  in  the  world  to 
come  life  everlasting.  These,  our  petitions,  we 
present  in  the  name  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 

And  unto  thee,  who  art  able  to  keep  us  from  fall- 
ing, and  to  present  us  faultless  before  the  throne  of 
thy  glory,  be  ascribed  all  majesty,  dominion  and 
power,  both  now  and  ever.  Amen. 


ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  the  Father  of  all 
mercies,  the  Giver  of  all  good,  we,  thine  unworthy 
creatures,  who  are  still,  by  thy  patient  goodness, 
preserved,  and  permitted  once  more  to  meet  before 
thee,  desire,  with  heart  and  voice  united,  to  lift  our 
souls  to  thee  in  adoration  and  praise.  Thou  art  the 
Lord,  by  whom  we  escape  death,  and  enjoy  the 
13  J 


146  ORISWOLD'S  PRATERS. 

To  be  used  in  Families,  Meetings  for  Prayer,  and  on  other  occasions. 

things  which  pertain  to  life  and  godliness.  We 
bless  thee  as  the  Author  of  our  being,  and  the  Giver 
of  life,  and  of  all  that  makes  life  desirable.  Thou 
hast  holden  us  up  ever  since  we  were  born,  and  may 
our  praise  be  always  of  thee.  Impress  upon  our 
hearts  a  lively  and  lasting  sense  of  what  thou  hast 
done  for  us,  and  work  in  us  that  which  is  pleasing 
in  thy  sight. 

We  acknowledge,  O  God,  our  sinfulness,  and  be- 
seech thee  to  give  us  that  true  repentance  which  is 
not  to  be  repented  of,  and  that  faith  towards  the 
Lord  Jesus  Christ  which  renews  the  heart,  worketh 
by  love  and  overcometh  the  world.  Through  the 
merits  of  his  blood,  may  our  sins  be  forgiven ;  and 
through  thy  sanctifying  grace,  may  we  be  created 
again  unto  good  works.  O  may  thy  Spirit  help 
our  infirmities  and  make  intercession  for  us.  Let 
the  words  of  our  mouth  and  the  meditation  of  our 
heart  be  acceptable  in  thy  sight.  May  our  prayers 
be  set  forth  before  thee  as  incense,  and  the  lifting 
up  of  our  hands  as  the  evening  sacrifice. 

Great,  O  Lord,  are  thy  mercies  vouchsafed  to  us, 
while  our  hearts  are  worldly,  forgetful  of  thy  good- 
ness, and  neglectful  of  thy  great  salvation.  Shut 
not  thy  merciful  ears  to  our  prayers ;  but  spare  us, 
O  Lord  God,  most  mighty;  thou  holy,  just  and 
merciful  Savior,  permit  us  not,  for  the  vanities  of 
life,  to  err  from  thee,  nor,  for  any  things  of  lime 
and  sense,  to  lose  our  souls. 

Teach  us,  O  thou  God  of  mercy,  to  realize  how 
short  and  uncertain  is  the  life  of  man.  The  Son  of 
man  cometh  as  a  thief  in  the  night,  and  thou  only 
knowest  how  soon  we  shall  be  called  to  another 
world,  and  our  souls  be  fixed  in  their  eternal  state. 
And  yet  we  live  in  this  world  as  though  we  were 
never  to  leave  it ;  forgetful  of  our  latter  end,  and 
unprepared  for  judgment.  How  wasteful  are  we 
of  our  precious  time !  how  careless  of  our  souls ! 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  147 

For  the  Closing  of  a  Religious  Meeting. 

how  thoughtless  of  eternity  !  Justly  mightest  thou 
call  us  away  in  the  midst  of  our  sins.  O  quicken 
us  that  we  may  live.  Awaken  us  to  righteousness, 
that  we  sin  not.  Remember  not,  Lord,  our  sins 
against  thee,  but  thy  love  to  us  in  Jesus  Christ; 
not  weighing  our  merits,  but  pardoning  our  offences. 

And  wilt  thou,  O  merciful  God,  awaken  in  our 
minds  a  deep  concern  for  the  salvation,  not  of  our- 
selves only,  but  of  others.  Hear  our  prayer,  we 
humbly  beseech  thee,  for  those  who  do  not  pray  for 
themselves.  Arrest,  by  thy  grace,  those  who  are 
going  along  the  broad  way  to  ruin ;  turning  a  deaf 
ear  to  the  calls  of  mercy  and  of  a  bleeding  Savior, 
and  unmindful  of  the  judgment  which  awaits  them. 
O  may  thy  quickening  Spirit  convince  them  of  sin, 
of  righteousness  and  of  judgment,  and  turn  their 
hearts  to  the  wisdom  of  the  just. 

Extend  thy  mercy  to  all  for  whom  we  ought  to 
pray.  Bless  our  churches  and  our  country.  Be- 
hold, O  Lord,  in  mercy,  this  little  flock  of  thy  wor- 
shipping people  here  before  thee.  Bless  the  church 
of  God  which  Christ  has  purchased  with  his  blood, 
and  especially  that  branch  of  it  with  which  we  are 
particularly  connected.  Keep  us,  O  Lord,  by  thy 
perpetual  mercy.  Unite  our  hearts  in  Christian 
love.  Enrich  our  minds  with  true  wisdom  and 
heavenly  grace.  May  we  be  steadfast  and  immov- 
able ;  always  abounding  in  the  work  of  the  Lord, 
through  Jesus  Christ,  to  whom,  with  the  Father 
and  Holy  Spirit,  be  endless  praise.  A  men. 


For  the  Closing  of  a  Religious  Meeting. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  unto  whom  all 
hearts  are  open,  all  desires  known,  and  from  whom 
no  secrets  are  hid,  cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our 


148  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  the  Closing  of  a  Religious  Meeting. 

hearts  by  the  inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit,  that 
we  may  address  thee  with  reverence  and  godly 
fear,  and  with  hearts  duly  thankful  for  thy  unnum- 
bered mercies.  We  thank  thee  for  thy  goodness  in 
preserving  our  unprofitable  lives  from  day  to  day, 
and  from  week  to  week ;  that  seasons  of  spiritual 
refreshment  often  return,  and  that  time  and  oppor- 
tunity are  given  us  to  know  thy  word  and  to  do  thy 
will.  We  bless  thee,  O  God,  especially  for  thy  fa- 
vors vouchsafed  us  during  the  past  day  and  this 
present  evening.  To  the  praise  of  thy  patient  good- 
ness we  thankfully  acknowledge  it,  that  we  have 
had  this  pleasing  opportunity  of  meeting  together ; 
that  we  have  been  permitted  with  social  affections 
to  unite  our  hearts  and  voices  in  prayer  and  praise 
to  thee,  the  Lord  God  of  our  salvation ;  that  we 
may  talk  of  thy  loving  kindness  early  in  the  morn- 
ing, and  of  thy  faithfulness  in  the  night  season.  O 
may  we  be  duly  thankful  for  this,  and  for  all  thy 
mercies :  may  we  realize  the  blessedness  of  gospel 
truth ;  of  seeing  the  things  which  we  see,  and  of 
hearing  the  things  which  we  hear.  May  the  coun- 
sels of  thy  word  sink  deep  in  our  hearts,  and  bring 
forth  the  fruits  of  pure  and  undefiled  religion.  Like 
thy  servants  of  old  who  feared  the  Lord,  may  we 
speak  often  one  to  another  on  the  subject  of  our  sal- 
vation in  Jesus  Christ ;  and  may  a  book  of  remem- 
brance be  written,  a  remembrance,  not  of  our  sins 
and  unworthiness,  but  of  thy  mercy,  and  of  the  love 
of  Christ,  which  passeth  man's  understanding.  May 
a  sense  of  thy  goodness  increase  our  love  of  thy  law, 
and  make  us  more  faithful  in  serving  thee. 

Let  thy  fatherly  hand,  we  beseech  thee,  ever  be 
extended  to  preserve  us  from  sin  and  danger,  and 
to  guide  our  steps  in  the  way  of  righteousness  and 
peace.  Though,  through  the  frailty  of  our  nature, 
and  amidst  the  busy  cares  of  life,  we  are  prone  to 
be  forgetful  of  thee,  our  God  and  Savior,  O  be  not 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  149 

»  _^__^____ 

For  the  Closing  of  a  Religious  Meeting. 

thou  unmindful  of  us :  may  thy  kind  and  watchful 
providence  ever  be  over  us :  may  thy  Holy  Spirit 
be  ever  with  us,  and  so  lead  us  in  the  knowledge 
and  obedience  of  thy  word,  that  in  the  end  we  may 
obtain  everlasting  life. 

Shed  abroad  thy  love  in  our  hearts.  May  we  all 
be  united  in  the  bands  of  a  holy  affection,  and  strive 
together  for  the  faith  of  the  gospel,  in  unity  of  spi- 
rit, in  the  bond  of  peace,  and  in  righteousness  of 
life.  Dispose  our  minds  to  every  good  word  and 
work,  that  we  may  abound  in  mercy  and  good 
fruits.  Make  us  thankful  in  prosperity ;  patient  in 
tribulation;  resigned  in  adversity,  and  faithful  in 
every  duty. 

Wilt  thou,  O  gracious  God,  revive  thy  work 
among  this  people.  May  the  knowledge  of  Christ, 
and  an  awakened  concern  for  the  salvation  of  their 
souls,  be  more  widely  extended.  O  may  multitudes 
be  inquiring  what  they  shall  do  to  be  saved ;  how 
they  shall  flee  from  the  wrath  to  come,  and  save 
themselves  from  this  untoward  generation.  With 
sincere  penitence  and  lively  faith,  may  they  come 
into  thy  church  as  doves  to  their  windows.. 

Inspire,  O  Lord,  the  ministers  of  thy  gospel  with 
holy  zeal ;  and  of  thy  great  mercy  so  direct  and 
govern  them  in  their  labor  of  love,  that  the  comfort- 
able gospel  of  Jesus  Christ  may  be  truly  preached, 
truly  received,  and  truly  followed.  Have  mercy 
upon  those  who  are  still  in  the  ways  of  sin,  impiety 
and  unbelief:  take  from  them  all  ignorance,  hard- 
ness of  heart  and  contempt  of  thy  word ;  and  fetch 
them  home,  blessed  Lord,  to  thy  flock,  that  they 
may  be  saved  among  the  remnant  of  the  true  Isra- 
elites, and  be  made  one  fold  under  one  Shepherd. 

Bless  the  people  of  our  country  with  union,  pros- 
perity and  peace ;  shield  them  by  thy  holy  protect- 
ing providence.  Surely  trusting  in  thy  defence, 
may  we  not  fear  the  power  of  any  adversary. 


150  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

The  Lord's  Prayer  Paraphrased. 

Make  us,  we  beseech  thee,  a  happy  people,  having 
the  Lord  for  our  God,  and  thy  word  for  our  guide. 
Do  thou,  O  God,  mercifully  incline  thine  ear  unto 
us  who  have  now  made  our  prayers  and  supplica- 
tions unto  thee,  and  grant  that  what  we  have  asked 
according  to  thy  will  may  effectually  be  obtained. 
Have  compassion,  we  beseech  thee,  upon  us  and 
our  infirmities ;  pardon  us  wherein  we  ask  amiss ; 
and  those  good  things  which  for  our  unworthiness 
we  dare  not,  and  for  our  blindness  we  cannot  ask, 
vouchsafe  to  give  us  for  the  worthiness  of  thy  Son, 
our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ. 

O  Lord,  bless  us  and  keep  us,  be  gracious  unto 
us,  and  give  us  peace,  both  now  and  evermore. 
Amen. 


The  Lord's  Prayer,  Paraphrased. 

MOST  merciful  and  gracious  God,  we,  thy  sinful, 
dependent  creatures,  in  the  name  and  words  of  our 
Savior,  Christ,  look  unto  thee  in  prayer,  as 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven,  exalted  above  all 
worlds,  and  invisible  to  mortal  eyes ;  who  humblest 
thyself  to  behold  the  things  that  are  in  the  earth : 
who  so  lovedst  the  world  as  to  give  thine  only  Son, 
that  through  faith  in  him  we  may  be  heirs  of  eter- 
nal life.  We  adore  thee  for  that  unspeakable  man- 
ner of  love,  which,  through  him,  thou  hast  bestowed 
upon  us,  that  we  should  be  called  the  sons  of  God ; 
and,  because  sons,  heirs  of  God  and  joint  heirs  with 
Christ ;  and,  by  the  spirit  of  adoption,  are  permitted 
to  cry,  Abba,  to  thee,  as  unto  a  reconciled  Father. 
In  his  name,  and  through  his  merits,  we  rejoice  to 
say, 

Hallowed  be  thy  name.  May  we  truly  sanctify  and 
reverence  the  Lord  God  in  our  hearts  and  our  lives ; 
and  may  all  the  earth  keep  silence  before  thee.  To 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  151 

The  Lord's  Prayer  Paraphrased. 

thee  may  every  knee  bow,  and  every  tongue  swear 
by  thy  name,  as  that  of  the  only  true  and  living 
God.  May  the  nations  of  the  earth,  with  angels 
and  archangels,  and  all  the  company  of  heaven, 
laud  and  magnify  thy  glorious  name.  May  a 
thankful  sense  of  thy  boundless  goodness  continu- 
ally swell  our  notes  of  praise.  As  thou,  who  hast 
called  us  to  a  knowledge  of  thy  grace,  art  holy ;  so 
may  we  be  holy  in  all  manner  of  conversation;  as 
it  is  written,  Be  ye  holy,  for  I  am  holy.  May  thy 
name  be  hallowed  for  thy  glorious  attributes ;  for 
thy  righteous  providence,  and  for  the  redemption  of 
mankind  in  Jesus  Christ.  Ever  adored  be  thy 
name,  that  thou  canst  be  just,  and  yet  justify  those 
who  have  sinned  against  thee ;  and  that  our  hopes 
are  raised  from  sorrow,  sin  and  death,  to  life  im- 
mortal. 

Thy  kingdom  come.  May  the  truth  of  thy 
blessed  gospel  be  established  in  every  heart,  and 
the  King  whom  thou  hast  set  on  thy  holy  hill  of 
Zion,  be  by  all  acknowledged,  as  both  Lord  and 
Christ.  May  there  be  added  daily  to  thy  church 
such  as  should  be  saved.  Grant  that  the  ministers 
of  thy  gospel,  and  thy  word  spoken  by  their  mouth, 
may  be  instrumental,  through  the  mighty  power  of 
the  Holy  Ghost,  in  the  conversion  of  souls,  till  the 
King  of  saints  shall  have  the  utmost  parts  of  the  earth 
for  his  possession.  O  hasten  on  those  glorious  days 
of  the  Redeemer's  kingdom,  when  the  mountain  of 
the  Lord's  house  shall  be  established  in  the  top  of 
the  mountains,  and  be  exalted  above  the  hills,  and 
all  nations  shall  flow  unto  it:  when  wars  and 
strifes  shall  cease,  and  the  earth  shall  be  full  of  the 
knowledge  of  the  Lord,  as  the  waters  cover  the  sea. 

Thy  will  be  done  on  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  We 
pray,  that  through  the  power  of  thy  grace,  all  who 
name  the  name  of  Christ  may  depart  from  iniquity, 
and  hold  the  true  faith  in  unity  of  spirit,  in  the  bond 


152  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

The  Lord's  Prayer  Paraphrased. 

of  peace,  and  in  righteousness  of  life.  Be  gracious 
unto  thy  church,  and  grant  that  every  member  of  it 
may  truly  and  godly  serve  thee.  May  all  divisions 
and  discord  cease.  As  the  blessed  angels  in  heaven, 
and  the  spirits  of  just  men  made  perfect,  unite  in 
love  and  praise ;  so  may  thy  people  here  on  earth 
be  joined  together  in  one  heart  and  one  mind,  striv- 
ing together  for  the  faith  of  the  gospel,  and  endea- 
voring to  be  perfect,  as  our  Father  in  heaven  is 
perfect.  Help  us  to  follow  the  example  of  Christ's 
humility,  patience  and  love,  till  we  come,  in  the 
unity  of  the  faith,  and  of  the  knowledge  of  the  Son 
of  God,  unto  the  perfect  man ;  unto  the  measure  of 
the  stature  of  the  fulness  of  Christ. 

Give  us  this  day  our  daily  bread.  Do  thou,  O 
Lord,  who  knowest  our  wants  and  our  dependence, 
give  to  us  and  to  our  brethren  what  is  needful  and 
convenient,  and  give  us  grace  with  thankful  hearts 
to  receive  and  rightly  to  use  it.  Make  us  contented 
with  what  thy  goodness  shall  bestow ;  and  may  we 
desire,  above  all  earthly  things,  that  our  souls  may 
be  fed  with  the  bread  of  life — with  the  heavenly 
manna  of  thy  word  and  doctrine. 

Forgive  us  our  trespasses.  We  have  erred  and 
strayed  from  thy  righteous  ways,  and  have  followed 
the  evil  devices  of  our  own  hearts.  Do  thou,  the 
God  of  mercy,  forgive  our  sins ;  sanctify  our  hearts, 
and  renew  a  right  spirit  within  us.  We  beseech 
thee,  O  Lord,  to  blot  out  our  transgressions. 

As  we  forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us.  If 
there  be  any  who  injure  us,  or  wish  us  evil,  give  us 
grace,  O  Lord,  truly  to  forgive  them;  and,  as  far 
as  in  us  lies,  to  overcome  evil  with  good.  May  the 
spirit  of  meekness  which  was  in  our  blessed  Savior 
be  in  us ;  may  we  forgive,  as  we  hope  to  be  forgiv- 
en, knowing  that  vengeance  is  thine  and  that  thou 
wilt  judge  the  world  in  righteousness. 

Lead  us  not  into  temptation.     Such  is  the  frailty 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  153 

A  Hymn  to  the  God  of  Christians. 

of  our  nature,  that  without  thee  we  cannot  but  fall. 
Keep  us,  we  beseech  thee,  both  outwardly  in  our 
bodies  and  inwardly  in  our  souls ;  defend  us  from 
adversity  and  preserve  us  from  all  temptation  to 
sin.  Give  us  wisdom  and  grace  to  avoid  that 
which  will  entice  us  to  transgress  thy  holy  laws.  In 
times  of  peril  suffer  us  not  to  fall  into  sin. 

But  deliver  us  from  evil.  When,  for  the  trial  of 
our  steadfastness,  or  for  other  purposes  of  thy  pro- 
vidence, we  are  exposed  to  temptation,  mercifully 
look  upon  our  infirmities,  and  in  all  such  dangers 
stretch  forth  thy  hand  to  help  and  defend  us. 
Grant  that  we  may  never  be  tempted  above  what 
we  are  made  able  to  withstand ;  but  that,  through 
thy  grace,  a  way  may  be  opened  to  escape  the 
snare. 

For  these  great  blessings  we  look  unto  thee,  our 
heavenly  Father,  through  the  merits  and  mediation 
of  thy  blessed  Son. 

For  thine  is  the  kingdom  of  the  whole  world,  both 
of  nature  and  grace,  and  the  power  to  support  us  in 
trial,  and  to  save  with  an  everlasting  salvation. 
And  to  thee  only,  as  thy  just  due,  be  ascribed  all 
the  glory  forever  and  ever.  Amen. 


A  Hymn  to  the  God  of  Christians. 

1.  Holy  Father,  great  Creator, 

Source  of  mercy,  love,  and  peace, 
Deign  to  bless  thy  sinful  creature, 
Through  the  Savior's  righteousness ; 

Heavenly  Father, 
Through  the  Savior,  hear  and  bless. 

2.  Holy  Jesus,  Lord  of  Glory, 

Whom  angelic  hosts  proclaim, 
Be  with  us,  who,  here  before  thee, 
Meet  and  worship  in  thy  name. 

Dear  Redeemer, 
In  our  hearts  thy  peace  proclaim. 


154  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Hymn  to  the  God  of  Christians. 

3.  Holy  Spirit,  Sanctifier, 

Come  with  unction  from  above, 
Touch  our  hearts  with  sacred  fire  ; 
Fill  them  with  the  Savior's  love ; 

Source  of  comfort, 
Cheer  us  with  the  Savior's  love. 

4.  God  the  Lord,  through  every  nation, 

Let  thy  wondrous  mercies'  shine  ; 
In  the  song  of  thy  salvation, 
Every  tongue  with  rapture  join. 

Great  Jehovah, 
Form  our  hearts,  and  make  them  thine. 


PART   THIRD. 

PRAYERS  WHICH  MAY  BE  USED  IN  MIS- 
SIONARY MEETINGS,  AND  ON 
OTHER  OCCASIONS. 

A  Prayer  for  the  Church. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  who  hast  built  thy 
church  upon  the  foundation  of  apostles  and  prophets, 
Jesus  Christ  himself  being  the  chief  corner-stone, 
and  hast  promised  to  be  with  its  ministers  to  the 
end  of  the  world,  we  beseech  thee  to  behold  it  with 
thy  favor  and  blessing,  and  keep  it  with  thy  perpe- 
tual mercy.  Grant,  we  beseech  thee,  that,  by  the 
operation  of  thy  Holy  Spirit,  all  Christians,  in  their 
vocation  and  ministry,  may  truly  and  godly  serve 
thee.  May  they  be  so  joined  together  in  unity  of 
spirit  and  in  the  bond  of  peace,  that  they  may  be  a 
holy  temple,  acceptable  unto  thee.  With  one  heart 
may  they  desire  the  prosperity  of  the  Redeemer's 
kingdom,  and  with  one  mouth  profess  the  faith 
once  delivered  to  the  saints.  Defend  them  from 
heresy  and  schism.  Bring  into  the  way  of  truth 
all  who  have  erred  and  are  deceived.  Strengthen 
such  as  do  stand ;  comfort  and  help  the  weak-heart- 
ed; raise  up  those  who  fall;  preserve  us  in  the 
hour  of  temptation,  and  deliver  us  from  evil. 

Enlarge,  we  beseech  thee,  the  borders  of  Zion, 
and  add  to  thy  church  daily,  and  in  vast  numbers. 


156  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  the  Clergy. 

such  as  should  be  saved.  O  may  thy  kingdom 
come  with  power,  till  all  shall  know  thee,  from  the 
least  to  the  greatest,  and  thy  will  be  done  on  earth 
as  it  is  in  heaven. 

And  grant,  O  Lord,  that  the  course  of  this  world 
may  be  so  peaceably  ordered  by  thy  governance, 
that  thy  people,  being  hurt  by  no  persecutions,  may 
serve  thee  without  fear,  in  holiness  and  righteous- 
ness, all  their  days ;  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord 
and  Savior.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  the  Clergy. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everliving  God,  who,  of  thy  infi- 
nite love  to  mankind,  hast  given  my  Son  Jesus 
Christ  to  be  our  Redeemer,  and  the  Author  of  ever- 
lasting life ;  who,  after  he  had  died  for  our  sins, 
and  risen  for  our  justification,  sent  forth  his  apostles 
and  prophets  and  other  ministers  to  preach  his  gos- 
pel and  make  disciples  of  all  nations ;  for  these,  so 
great  benefits  of  thy  eternal  goodness,  and  that  thou 
art  still  sending  laborers  into  thy  vineyard,  and 
calling  men  to  the  knowledge  of  thy  salvation  in 
Jesus  Christ,  we  render  thee  most  hearty  thanks ; 
we  bless  and  praise  thy  holy  name.  We  bless 
thee,  O  God,  that  thou  didst  so  love  the  world,  as 
to  send  into  it  thy  blessed  Son  to  be  our  Savior ; 
and  that  thou  hast  commanded  the  good  tidings  of 
his  gospel  to  be  proclaimed  to  all  the  nations  of  the 
earth.  Give  us  grace  to  manifest  our  thankfulness 
for  this  thy  great  goodness,  by  endeavoring,  as  thou 
shall  give  us  grace  and  means,  to  spread  the  know- 
ledge of  Christ,  and  to  extend  the  ministrations  of 
his  religion  to  all  who  need  them. 

Teach  us,  O  Lord,  to  pray,  and  graciously  hear 
our  humble  prayers  for  those  who  are  ordained  to 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  157 

A  Prayer  for  the  Clergy. 

preach  the  gospel  of  Christ,  and  to  minister  in  holy 
things.  Wilt  thou,  O  God,  who  alone  canst,  make 
them  sufficient  for  these  things ;  rule  their  hearts, 
strengthen  their  hands  and  bless  their  labors.  En- 
due them  with  wisdom  from  above ;  inspire  them 
with  a  holy,  heavenly  zeal,  and  grant  that  thy 
word,  spoken  by  their  mouth,  may  have  such  free 
course  and  be  so  blest,  that  it  may  never  be  spoken 
in  vain.  Send  down  upon  our  bishops  and  other 
clergy,  and  upon  the  congregations  committed  to 
their  charge,  the  healthful  spirit  of  thy  grace ;  and, 
that  they  may  truly  please  thee,  pour  upon  them 
the  continual  dew  of  thy  blessing.  Let  all  thy  mi- 
nisters be  clothed  with  righteousness,  and  be  whole- 
some examples  and  patterns  to  the  flock  of  Christ. 
Grant  that  they  may,  both  by  their  life  and  doc- 
trine, set  forth  thy  true  and  lively  word ;  that  they 
may  rightly  and  duly  administer  the  sacraments 
and  other  ordinances  of  Jesus  Christ,  and  be  faith- 
ful to  declare  all  the  counsel  of  God.  Make  them, 
O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  instruments  of  thy  grace, 
in  awakening  sinners  to  righteousness ;  in  turning 
the  hearts  of  the  disobedient  to  the  wisdom  of  the 
just,  and  extending  the  borders  of  the  Redeemer's 
kingdom. 

And  wilt  thou,  O  merciful  God,  behold  with 
compassion  the  perishing  souls  of  thy  sinful  crea- 
tures. Raise  up,  we  beseech  thee,  and  send  into 
thy  harvest,  able  ministers  of  thy  word;  pastors 
and  teachers  after  thine  own  heart,  who  shall  labor 
faithfully  and  successfully  in  word  and_  doctrine; 
whose  meat  and  drink  it  shall  be  to  know  and  do 
thy  will. 

And  may  it  please  thee.  O  thou  Lord  of  the  har- 
vest, to  convince  the  people  among  whom  thy  mi- 
nisters labor,  of  sin,  of  righteousness  and  of  judg- 
ment. Open  their  minds  that  they  may  understand 
the  things  of  thy  law :  give  them  grace  to  heai 
14 


158  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  suitable  for  Associations  and  other  Meetings  of  the  Clergy. 

meekly  thy  word,  to  receive,  in  an  honest  and  good 
heart,  the  doctrines  of  eternal  life,  and  bring  forth 
the  fruits  of  the  spirit.  May  the  light  of  thy  truth 
and  the  power  of  thy  grace  be  extended  to  the  re- 
motest regions  of  the  earth,  and  all  who  do  confess 
thy  name  live  according  to  the  precepts  of  thy  holy 
word.  Hear  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  and 
grant  our  requests,  for  the  sake  of  thy  Son,  our 
Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  suitable  for  Associations,  and  other  Meetings  of  the  Clergy. 

MOST  gracious  Lord  God,  the  Author  of  all  bless- 
edness and  Giver  of  all  good,  who,  by  thy  Son,  Je- 
sus Christ,  hast  appointed  divers  orders  of  ministers 
in  thy  church,  and  promised  to  be  with  them  to  the 
end  of  the  world,  look  down,  we  beseech  thee,  with 
thy  favor  and  blessings,  upon  us,  thy  unworthy 
servants,  who  are  called  to  be  thy  mouth  to  the 
people,  and  to  minister  before  thee  in  sacred  things. 
Without  thee  nothing  is  strong,  nothing  holy,  no- 
thing good.  Without  the  aid  of  thy  Holy  Spirit, 
and  the  wisdom  which  is  from  above,  no  man  is 
sufficient  for  such  a  work.  Increase  and  multiply 
upon  us  thy  mercy,  and  be  thou  our  ruler  and 
guide.  Awaken  in  our  minds  a  just  estimate  and 
lively  sense  of  the  nature  and  duties  and  importance 
of  the  office  and  ministry  to  which  we  are  called  ; 
to  be  messengers,  watchmen  and  stewards  of  the 
Lord  Jesus  Christ ;  to  teach  and  feed  and  provide 
for  his  family  ;  to  seek  for  his  sheep  who  are  dis- 
persed abroad,  that  they  may  be  saved  in  him  for- 
ever. Though  unworthy  to  loose  the  latchet  of  his 
shoes,  we  are  called  to  labor  in  his  name,  and  to 
pray  men,  in  Christ's  stead,  to  be  reconciled  to 
God.  Preserve  us,  O  Lord,  from  being  deceived 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  159 

A  Prayer  suitable  for  Associations  and  other  Meetings  of  the  Clergy. 

in  regard  to  our  call  to  this  ministry,  and  from  all 
unfaithfulness  in  the  discharge  of  it.  O  thou  God 
of  mercy,  may  thy  presence  and  thy  grace  be  ever 
with  us.  Open  our  minds  that  we  may  understand 
the  Scriptures  and  the  true  doctrines  of  eternal  life. 
Awaken  in  our  hearts  a  holy  zeal  for  the  honor  of 
thy  name,  for  the  prosperity  of  thy  church,  and  for 
the  salvation  of  ourselves  and  others.  May  it  be 
our  meat  and  drink,  and  the  supreme  desire  of  our 
hearts,  to  walk  in  the  steps  of  our  Savior,  Christ, 
and  to  do  his  work.  Remove  from  us  the  fear  of 
man  and  all  undue  regard  to  worldly  things ;  may 
we  truly  and  faithfully  declare  to  all  who  have  ears 
to  hear  the  whole  counsel  of  God,  and  so  plant  and 
water  that  thou  mayst  give  increase,  and  our 
labor  be  not  in  vain. 

In  all  trials  and  difficulties  do  thou,  O  blessed 
Lord,  be  our  guide  and  support.  Though  bonds  or 
afflictions  abide  us,  may  none  of  them  move  us 
from  our  steadfastness :  may  it  be  our  chief  desire 
to  finish  our  course  with  joy,  and  the  ministry 
which  we  have  received,  and  to  testify  the  gospel 
of  the  grace  of  God.  To  thee,  our  God  and  Savior, 
would  we  devote  ourselves,  our  soul  and  body  and 
spirit,  with  all  our  faculties.  Fill  our  memory  with 
the  words  of  thy  law  and  the  truth  of  thy  gospel. 
Help  us  to  minister  the  doctrine  and  sacraments 
and  discipline  of  Christ,  according  as  thou  hast 
commanded,  and  to  banish  and  drive  away  from 
thy  church  all  erroneous  and  strange  doctrines 
which  are  contrary  to  thy  word.  Help  us  to  be 
earnest  and  faithful  in  prayers  for  ourselves  and  for 
others  ;  and  to  be  diligent  in  reading  and  studying 
the  Scriptures,  and  in  the  use  of  all  other  means 
which,  through  thy  blessing,  will  help  us  in  the 
performance  of  all  the  duties  which  appertain  to 
our  office  and  ministry. 

And   help   us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  so  to 


160  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  suitable  for  Associations  and  other  Meetings  of  the  Clergy. 

fashion  our  lives  and  to  walk  before  the  people,  that 
we  may  be  wholesome  examples  to  the  flock  of 
Christ.  Help  us  to  follow  after  charity,  which  is 
the  bond  of  perfectness,  and  to  maintain  and  set 
forward  as  much  as  lieth  in  us,  quietness,  peace 
and  love  among  all  Christian  people,  and  especially 
among  them  who  are  or  shall  be  committed  to  our 
charge. 

Be  gracious,  O  Lord,  to  thy  church.  May  the 
borders  of  Zion  be  enlarged,  till  the  kingdoms  of  the 
earth  shall  become  the  kingdom  of  the  Lord,  and 
all  the  ends  of  the  world  shall  rejoice  in  thy  salva- 
tion. And  wilt  thou,  O  gracious  Lord,  behold, 
with  thy  favor  and  blessing,  the  churches  and  con- 
gregations with  which  we  are  severally  and  more 
particularly  connected.  We  beseech  thee  to  pour 
out  thy  spirit  and  revive  thy  work  amongst  them. 
Bless  to  their  edification  the  ministry  of  thy  word. 
By  thy  mighty  power  may  sinners  be  converted, 
and  the  careless  awakened  to  righteousness. 
Strengthen  those  who  stand ;  comfort  and  bless  the 
weak-hearted ;  raise  up  those  who  fall,  and  add  to 
thy  church  such  as  should  be  saved. 

Direct  us,  O  Lord,  in  all  that  we  do  and  ought  to 
do,  with  thy  most  gracious  favor,  and  further  us 
with  thy  continual  help,  that  in  all  our  works,  be- 
gun, continued  and  ended  in  thee,  we  may  be  in- 
strumental in  building  up  the  Redeemer's  kingdom, 
to  the  glory  of  thy  great  name,  and  the  salvation 
of  ourselves  and  others. 

These  things,  and  whatever  else  thou  seest  to  be 
necessary  and  convenient  to  us,  and  to  the  flocks 
committed  to  our  care,  and  to  thy  whole  church, 
we  humbly  ask,  through  the  merits  and  mediation 
of  Jesus  Christ,  in  whose  name  and  words  we  fur- 
ther pray : — 

Our  Father  who  art  in  heaven,  &c. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  161 

Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  a  Meeting. 


The  two  following  forms  of  Prayer,  to  be  iised,  the  one  at  the  opening; 
the  other  at  the  dosing-  of  a  meeting,  are  chiejlyfrom  some  forms  com- 
piled for  the  use  of  THE  PROTESTANT  EPISCOPAL  CLERICAL  ASSOCIA- 
TION OF  THE  CITY  OF  NEW  YORK. 

Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  a  Meeting. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  unto  whom  all  hearts  are  open, 
and  from  whom  all  holy  desires  and  all  good  coun- 
sels do  proceed,  cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our  hearts, 
by  the  inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit,  that  in  all  the 
exercises  for  which  we  are  now  gathered  together 
in  thy  name,  the  words  of  our  mouth  and  the  medi- 
tations of  our  hearts  may  be  acceptable  in  thy 
sight,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  strength  and  our 
Redeemer.  Amen. 


WE  presume  not  to  come  to  thy  throne  of  grace, 
O  merciful  Lord,  trusting  in  our  own  righteousness, 
but  in  thy  manifold  and  great  mercies.  We  are 
not  worthy  so  much  as  to  lift  up  our  eyes  unto 
heaven.  We  acknowledge  the  manifold  sins  which 
we  have  committed  by  thought,  word  and  deed, 
against  thy  divine  majesty.  We  beseech  thee,  O 
God,  to  behold  us  in  mercy,  not  weighing  our  me- 
rits, but  pardoning  our  offences.  In  the  name  of 
our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ,  and  through  his 
merits,  we  would  come  before  thy  gracious  throne, 
beseeching  thee,  for  his  sake,  to  hear  our  supplica- 
tions and  prayers. 

O  Lord,  show  thy  mercy  upon  us  ; 
Ans.     And  grant  us  thy  salvation. 

O  God,  make  clean  our  hearts  within  us ; 
Ans.     And  take  not  thy  Holy  Spirit  from  us. 
14*  K 


162  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  a  Meeting. 

O  Lord,  unto  us,  who  are  but  dust,  and  unworthy 
sinners,  is  this  grace  given,  that  we  should  preach 
the  unsearchable  riches  of  Christ:  that  we  are 
separated  unto  the  gospel  of  thy  Son;  made 
overseers  of  the  flock  which  he  hath  purchased 
with  his  own  blood.  Thou  hast  committed  unto  us 
the  word  of  reconciliation,  that  we  should  show 
unto  men  the  way  of  eternal  life.  Having  received 
this  ministry,  as  we  have  obtained  mercy  of  thee, 
O  Lord,  we  faint  not,  but  earnestly  desire,  by  ma- 
nifestation of  the  truth,  to  commend  ourselves  to 
every  man's  conscience,  in  the  fear  of  God.  We 
feel,  O  heavenly  Father,  that  we  are  not  sufficient 
for  these  things :  that  our  wisdom  is  but  foolish- 
ness ;  our  strength  but  weakness ;  our  love  too 
cold ;  our  faith  too  feeble,  and  our  zeal  too  languid. 
Without  thee  we  can  do  nothing  good.  Unspeaka- 
bly precious  are  the  souls  committed  to  our  trust ; 
and  if  we  are  not  faithful  to  warn  them  of  their 
wicked  way,  their  blood  wilt  thou  require  at  the 
watchmen's  hands.  To  whom  can  we  look  for 
succor  but  unto  thee,  O  merciful  Lord,  whose  grace 
is  sufficient  for  us,  and  whose  strength  is  made 
perfect  in  the  weakness  of  thy  ministers.  Without 
thee,  O  blessed  Jesus,  who  hast  promised  to  be  with 
them  to  the  end  of  the  world,  we  can  do  nothing ; 
but  in  thy  strength  we  can  do  all  things  which  ap- 
pertain to  our  office  and  ministry.  Pour  upon  .us 
the  abundance  of  thy  grace,  that  we  may  be  strong 
in  thee,  O  Lord,  and  in  the  power  of  thy  might  be 
able  ministers  of  the  New  Testament.  Increase 
our  faith  and  trust  in  thee,  and  put  upon  us  the 
whole  armor  of  God,  that  we  may  withstand  all 
the  fiery  darts  of  the  wicked.  These  mercies  we 
humbly  beg,  for  the  sake  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  bless- 
ed Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  163 

Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  a  Meeting. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  in  thy  great  goodness  to  thy  sin- 
ful creatures,  be  pleased  to  endue  our  souls  with 
the  spirit  of  love.  May  we  love  thee  with  all  our 
heart  and  soul  and  mind,  and  follow  after  charity 
which  is  the  bond  of  perfectness.  Let  the  love  of 
Christ  so  constrain  us,  that  we  may  live  not  to  our- 
selves, but  unto  Him,  who  died  for  our  sins,  and  rose 
again  for  our  justification ;  and  grant  us  such  fervent 
affection  for  the  souls  of  men,  and  desire  for  their 
salvation,  that  we  may  be  ready  to  impart,  not  the 
gospel  only,  but  our  lives  also  to  those  among 
whom  we  labor.  May  the  weapons  of  our  warfare 
be  not  carnal,  but  mighty,  through  God,  to  the 
casting  down  every  thing  that  exalteth  itself  against 
thee,  and  bringing  every  thought  into  captivity  to 
the  obedience  of  Christ.  Let  not  our  speech  and 
our  preaching  be  with  enticing  words  of  man's  wis- 
dom, but  in  demonstration  of  the  Spirit  and  of 
power.  Open  thou  our  understanding,  that  we  may 
know  the  way  of  salvation  as  revealed  in  the  gos- 
pel, and  be  wise  to  win  souls  to  Christ.  Teach  us 
to  declare,  in  his  spirit,  the  whole  counsel  of  God, 
keeping  back  nothing  that  is  profitable ;  that  sin- 
ners may  be  humbled,  the  Savior  exalted,  and  God 
glorified  in  all  things.  These  things  we  also  ask  in 
the  name  of  our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ. 
Amen. 


O  MERCIFUL  God,  unto  whom  we  must  all  render 
an  account  of  our  stewardships,  deliver  us,  we  be- 
seech thee,  from  the  fear  of  man.  May  we  count 
it  a  small  thing  to  be  judged  of  man's  judgment, 
knowing  that  he  who  jndgeth  us  is  the  Lord.  May 
all  our  glorying  be  in  the  cross  of  Christ.  May  we 
never  be  ashamed  to  confess  him  before  men ;  but 
have  great  boldness  in  the  faith,  and  speak  boldly, 


164  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  a  Meeting. 

as  we  ought  to  speak,  to  make  known  the  mystery 
of  the  gospel,  that  Christ  may  be  magnified  in  us, 
whether  by  life,  or  by  death.  May  it  be  our  chief 
desire  to  make  known  among  men  Jesus  Christ  and 
him  crucified,  willing  for  his  sake  to  be  accounted 
fools,  and  to  suffer  reproaches  and  persecutions  and 
distress.  May  we  never  think  of  ourselves  more 
highly  than  we  ought  to  think,  nor  be  unduly  in- 
fluenced by  the  love  of  praise  or  filthy  lucre ;  but 
be  humble  and  meek,  gladly  becoming  the  servants 
of  all,  that  men  may  be  saved  in  Jesus  Christ, 
through  whom  alone  we  offer  these  our  humble 
prayers.  Amen. 


O  LORD,  we  are  encompassed  with  infirmities; 
whatever  hindrances  and  difficulties  beset  us,  ena- 
ble us,  in  humble,  steadfast  faith,  to  look  still  to 
thee  for  guidance  and  strength.  In  patience  may 
we  possess  our  souls.  Inspire  us  with  such  zeal  as 
becometh  those  who  bear  the  message  of  salvation 
to  perishing  sinners.  May  we  have  our  people  in 
our  hearts,  and  long  after  them  all,  in  the  bowels  of 
Jesus  Christ ;  not  ceasing  to  pray  for  them ;  warn- 
ing every  man,  and  teaching  every  man  in  all  wis- 
dom, that  we  may  present  every  man  perfect  in 
Christ  Jesus.  Though  the  fruit  of  our  labor  do  not 
soon  appear,  give  us  faith  and  patience  to  wait  in 
hope,  arid  with  a  holy  confidence  to  trust  in  thee : 
relying  upon  thy  promises,  may  we  be  steadfast, 
unmovable,  always  abounding  in  the  work  of  the 
Lord,  forasmuch  as  we  know  that  our  labor  is  not 
in  vain  in  the  Lord.  May  we  never  be  forgetful  of 
our  dependence  upon  thee,  but  always  remember 
that  neither  is  he  that  planteth  nor  he  that  watereth 
any  thing,  but  God  that  giveth  the  increase.  Give, 
we  earnestly  beseech  thee,  O  give  thy  blessing  to 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  165 

Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Opening  of  a  Meeting. 

our  labors ;  let  not  thy  word  return  unto  thee  void, 
but  prosper  it  in  the  thing  whereto  thou  sendest  it. 
Be  with  us  in  season  and  out  of  season.  Bear  wit- 
ness, by  thy  Spirit,  to  thy  word,  making  it  a  savor 
of  life  to  the  hearers,  awakening  the  careless,  esta- 
blishing the  wavering,  recovering  those  who  err 
from  the  truth ;  comforting  those  who  mourn,  and 
building  up  thy  people  in  their  most  holy  faith. 
Grant  these  blessings,  O  gracious  God,  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


WE  humbly  beseech  thee,  O  heavenly  Father,  in 
behalf  of  the  flocks  which  thou  hast  appointed  us 
to  feed,  that  thou  wouldst  grant  them,  according  to 
the  riches  of  thy  glory,  to  be  strengthened  with 
might  in  the  inner  man,  that  Christ  may  dwell  in 
their  hearts  by  faith  ;  that,  being  rooted  and 
grounded  in  love,  they  may  be  able  to  comprehend, 
with  all  saints,  what  is  the  breadth  and  length,  and 
depth  and  height,  and  know  the  love  of  Christ, 
which  passeth  knowledge,  that  they  may  be  filled 
with  all  the  fulness  of  God.  From  all  ignorance, 
hardness  of  heart,  and  neglect  of  thy  holy  word, 
good  Lord,  deliver  them.  Give  them  grace  to  re- 
ceive with  meekness  the  ingrafted  word,  which  is 
able  to  save  their  souls ;  and  tt>  be  doers  of  the 
word,  and  not  hearers  only.  Have  mercy,  O  gra- 
cious Lord,  upon  the  impenitent :  alarm  the  care- 
less, and  awaken  them  to  righteousness.  Open  the 
eyes  of  the  blind ;  guide  the  inquiring ;  pity  those 
who  are  deceived  ;  be  gracious  to  all  who  mourn  for 
their  sins,  and  defend  thy  people  in  every  danger, 
and  from  every  sin. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  merciful  God,  to  hear  our 
prayers.  Vouchsafe  thy  blessing  upon  our  present 
meeting.  May  our  coming  together  be  for  the  bet- 


166  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Conclusion  of  a  Meeting. 

ter.  We  beseech  thee,  according  to  thy  gracious 
promise,  to  be  with  us,  who  have  met  in  thy  name, 
and,  we  humbly  trust,  according  to  thy  will.  May 
this  social  interview  tend  to  the  good  of  thy 
church,  and  to  the  spiritual  refreshment  of  our  own 
souls.  Preserve  us  from  all  error,  levity,  pride,  and 
prejudice.  May  we  love  as  brethren ;  be  humble, 
affectionate  and  kind;  and  in  all  we  think  and  speak 
and  do,  have  a  solemn  sense  of  thy  presence,  and  a 
single  eye  to  thy  glory.  All  these  our  humble  peti- 
tions we  offer  and  present  unto  thee,  O  heavenly 
Father,  in  the  name  and  through  the  mediation  of 
Jesus  Christ,  to  whom,  with  thee,  and  the  Holy 
Ghost,  be  all  glory  and  praise,  now  and  for  ever- 
more. Amen. 

Our  Father  who  art,  &c. 


Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Conclusion  of  a  Meeting. 

ALMIGHTY  God,  the  Father  of  all  mercies,  we, 
thine  unworthy  servants,  do  give  thee  most  humble 
and  hearty  thanks  for  all  thy  goodness  and  loving 
kindness  to  us  and  to  all  men.  Praised  be  thy  glo- 
rious name  for  thine  inestimable  love  in  the  re- 
demption of  the  world  by  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ. 
Wonderful  are  the  mercies  through  him  vouchsafed 
to  thy  sinful  creatures ;  unspeakably  precious  the 
blessings  which  thou  hast  given  us  through  his 
death  and  resurrection.  We  bless  thee,  O  God, 
especially  for  this  opportunity  of  talking  of  thy 
loving  kindness,  and  for  the  delightful  fellowship 
and  communion  which,  by  thy  goodness,  we  have 
now  been  permitted  to  enjoy.  Grant,  O  Lord,  that 
great  and  permanent  good,  to  ourselves  and  to 
others,  may  ensue  from  this  meeting.  Whatever 
lessons  we  have  learned, — whatever  impressions 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  167 

Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Conclusion  of  a  Meeting. 

we  have  received,  may  they  be  sanctified  and 
abiding.  May  brotherly  love  continue.  May  our  love 
to  Christ,  and  for  his  church,  be  increased :  may  we 
be  more  devoted  to  his  service,  and  more  heartily 
determined,  in  the  sufficiency  of  his  grace,  to  make 
full  proof  of  our  ministry.  Enable  us  to  endure 
hardness,  as  good  soldiers  of  Jesus  Christ ;  to  be 
instant,  in  season  and  out  of  season  :  may  we  follow 
after  righteousness,  faith,  meekness  and  love,  and 
the  gospel,  which  we  preach,  come  to  the  hearers, 
not  in  word  only,  but  also  in  power,  to  the  purify- 
ing of  the  heart  by  faith. 

But  before  thee,  O  God,  who  searchest  the  heart, 
and  triest  the  reins  of  men,  and  while  we  rejoice  in 
believing  that  thou  hast  been  in  the  midst  of  us,  we 
bow  with  self-abasement,  and  a  sense  of  unworthi- 
ness,  and  ask  thy  forgiveness  of  the  sins  which  we 
may  have  committed  in  thy  presence.  We  feel  that 
our  holiest  things  have  need  of  pardon.  Have 
mercy  upon  us,  O  Lord,  have  mercy  upon  us  and 
pardon  our  offences,  for  his  sake  who  died  for  our 
sins  and  rose  again  for  our  justification,  Jesus  Christ 
our  Lord.  Amen. 


O  GOD,  who  hast  commanded  us  to  make  inter- 
cession for  all  men,  have  mercy,  we  beseech  thee, 
upon  the  whole  church  of  Christ  on  earth.  Let 
thy  continued  pity  cleanse  and  defend  it ;  and  espe- 
cially that  portion  of  it  with  which  we  are  parti- 
cularly associated.  Preserve  it  from  all  perils  and 
adversities,  and  cause  it  to  shine  in  the  light  of  thy 
blessing,  as  a  city  set  on  a  hill.  Defend  it  from  all 
heresy  and  schism.  Take  away  every  root  of  bit- 
terness, that  all  its  ministers  and  people  may  be 
kindly  affectioned  one  to  another ;  in  honor  pre- 
ferring one  another ;  not  slothful  in  business ;  fer- 


168  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Conclusion  of  a  Meeting. 

vent  in  spirit,  serving  the  Lord.  On  all  our  con- 
gregations and  their  pastors  pour  out  a  spirit  of 
active  and  self-denying  zeal ;  that  they  may  labor 
in  unity  of  spirit  and  in  the  bond  of  peace,  to  pro- 
mote the  spread  of  the  gospel  throughout  our  land, 
and  to  the  uttermost  parts  of  the  earth.  And  to 
all  the  means  of  grace,  and  all  the  efforts  of  bene- 
volence, in  the  churches  in  which  we  minister, 
vouchsafe  thy  favor,  to  guide,  to  govern  and  to 
prosper  them,  that  thy  glory  may  be  advanced,  and 
the  kingdom  of  Christ  enlarged.  We  humbly  pray 
for  thy  blessing  upon  the  bishops  of  our  church, 
and  especially  upon  him  who  has  the  spiritual  su- 
perintendence of  the  churches  under  our  care. 
Endow  them  richly  with  all  the  wisdom,  love,  ten- 
derness, firmness  and  zeal  necessary  to  the  faithful 
discharge  of  the  duties  of  their  office.  Deeply  im- 
bue their  hearts  with  the  spirit  of  Christ.  May  all 
their  influence  be  holy.  May  they  lay  hands  sud- 
denly on  no  man ;  and  may  all  those  whom  they 
do  ordain  to  the  sacred  ministry,  be  such  as  will  do 
the  work  of  evangelists.  May  they  labor  in  hope, 
and  so  fight  the  good  fight  of  faith,  and  finish  their 
course,  that  finally  they  may  receive  a  crown  of 
righteousness,  which  fadeth  not  away,  through 
Jesus  Christ,  their  Lord  and  Master. 

Ans.      O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee  to  hear  us. 

To  all  who  are  or  shall  be  ordained  to  the  various 
orders  of  the  ministry  in  thy  church,  give  thy  grace 
and  heavenly  benediction.  May  they  take  heed  to 
themselves  and  to  their  doctrine,  and  be  examples 
to  the  flock,  in  word,  in  conversation,  in  charity,  in 
spirit,  in  faith  and  purity,  giving  no  offence  in  any 
thing,  that  the  ministry  be  not  blamed.  May  they 
avoid  questions  which  do  but  gender  strife,  and  be 
gentle  unto  all  men,  apt  to  teach  and  patient ;  in 
meekness  instructing  them  who  oppose  themselves. 
In  doctrine  may  they  show  uncorruptness,  gravity, 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  169 

Prayers  to  be  used  at  the  Conclusion  of  a  Meeting. 

sincerity:  not  being  ashamed  of  the  testimony 
of  the  Lord,  but  ready  to  be  partakers  of  the 
afflictions  of  the  gospel,  according  to  the  power 
of  God.  May  they  show  themselves  workmen 
who  need  not  be  ashamed,  rightly  dividing  the 
word  of  truth.  Increase,  O  Lord,  we  humbly 
beseech  thee,  the  number  of  pious,  faithful  minis- 
ters :  thou  gracious  Lord  of  the  harvest,  send  into 
it  laborers  qualified  and  disposed  truly  to  do  thy 
work.  If  thou  give  the  word,  great  will  be  the 
company  of  the  preachers.  Do  thou,  in  thy  merci- 
ful goodness,  give  shepherds  to  all  destitute  flocks, 
and  build  up  the  waste  places  of  Zion.  We  pray 
thee  to  give  thy  blessing  to  those  institutions,  in 
which  candidates  for  the  ministry  are  educated  for 
the  work  whereunto  thou  shalt  be  pleased  to  call 
them.  Enlighten  the  understanding,  sanctify  the 
hearts,  and  prosper  the  efforts  of  those  who  conduct 
them;  and  so  enrich  the  youth  connected  with 
them,  that  they  may  become  apt  and  meet  to  exer- 
cise the  ministry,  to  the  glory  of  God,  and  to  the 
edifying  of  his  church. 

Ans.      O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee  to  hear  us. 

We  pray,  O  gracious  Lord,  that  all  Christians 
may  have  more  and  more  of  the  mind  of  Christ, 
and  be  diligent  in  all  good  works.  May  all  their 
endeavors  to  do  thy  will  be  sanctified  by  thy  Spirit, 
guided  by  thy  wisdom,  and  prospered  by  thy  bless- 
ing. May  an  ardent  desire  for  the  coming  of  thy 
kingdom  unite  the  hearts,  increase  the  prayers, 
and  multiply  the  exertions  of  all  who  name  them- 
selves of  Christ.  May  they  pray  earnestly  and 
strive  diligently,  that  the  gospel  may  be  preached 
to  every  creature.  May  we  deeply  lament  the 
weakness  of  our  faith,  and  the  coldness  of  our  love 
and  our  zeal  for  thee  and  for  thy  church.  O  Lord, 
we  beseech  thee,  pour  out  upon  all  Christian  people 
the  spirit  of  missions ; — the  earnest  desire,  by  all 
15 


170  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Prayers  to  he  used  at  the  Conclusion  of  a  Meeting. 

proper  means,  to  spread  to  all  the  nations  of  the 
earth  the  knowledge  of  Christ,  and  the  doctrines  of 
eternal  life.  May  the  treasury  of  the  Lord  be  filled 
with  the  means  of  supporting  those  who  do  the 
work  of  evangelists.  May  thy  blessing  be  with 
those  servants  of  Christ  who  have  gone  forth  to 
preach  the  gospel  to  the  destitute,  whether  in  hea- 
then or  in  Christian  lands,  and  let  the  power  of  thy 
grace  be  manifested  in  their  success.  Have  mercy 
upon  all  idolaters  and  unbelievers.  For  the  chil- 
dren of  Israel,  unto  whom  pertained  the  adoption 
and  the  covenants,  and  of  whom,  as  concerning  the 
flesh,  Christ  came,  we  offer  our  earnest  interces- 
sion. Our  hearts'  desire  and  prayer  to  thee  for 
Israel  is,  that  they  may  be  saved.  From  the  rising 
of  the  sun  unto  the  going  down  of  the  same,  let  thy 
name  be  great  among  the  Gentiles,  and  in  every 
place  may  incense  be  offered  unto  thy  name  and  a 
pure  offering.  O  take  the  heathen  for  thine  inheri- 
tance, and  the  utmost  parts  of  the  earth  for  thy 
possession. 

Ans.  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee  to  hear  us, 
Finally,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee  to  have  mercy 
on  us,  unworthy  sinners.  Whatever  we  need  in 
time,  and  for  eternity,  vouchsafe  to  grant;  and 
Avhen  we  have  served  thee  in  our  generation,  may 
we  sleep  in  Jesus,  and  meet  at  thy  right  hand,  hav- 
ing our  garments  washed  and  made  white  in  the 
blood  of  the  Lamb.  And  unto  the  Father,  the  Son 
and  the  Holy  Ghost,  three  persons  and  one  God,  be 
all  honor  and  glory,  world  without  end.  Amen. 

The  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the  love 
of  God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be 
with  us  all  evermore.  Amen. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  171 

A  Prayer  for  the  Success  of  Missionary  Labors. 


A  Prayer  for  the  Success  of  Missionary  Labors. 

O  LORD  God,  our  heavenly  Father,  who,  in  thy 
mercy,  hast  so  loved  the  world  as  to  give  thine  only 
Son  to  be  our  Savior,  and  hast  commanded  that  the 
good  tidings  of  pardon  and  peace  and  life,  through 
faith  in  him,  should  be  proclaimed  to  all  mankind, 
give  us  hearts,  we  beseech  thee,  to  be  duly  thank- 
ful for  this  thy  unspeakable  goodness,  and  hear  our 
supplications  and  prayers.  May  a  thankful  sense 
of  thy  mercy  to  our  fallen,  sinful  race,  awaken  in 
our  hearts  a  deep  concern  for  the  salvation  of  those 
for  whom  the  Savior  died.  Give  thy  blessing,  we 
beseech  thee,  to  the  means  and  efforts  used  for  the 
propagation  of  the  gospel,  and  for  extending  the 
light  of  thy  word  through  the  darkness  of  this  sin- 
ful world. 

Accept,  O  Lord,  of  our  supplications  for  those 
nations  and  people  of  the  earth  who  are  sitting  in 
the  shadow  of  death,  having  no  hope,  and  without 
God  in  the  world  ;  and  for  all  who  are  in  error  or 
ignorance  or  unbelief.  May  the  Sun  of  righteous- 
ness rise  upon  them,  with  healing  in  his  wings. 
Take  from  them  all  blindness  and  hardness  of  heart, 
and  give  them  repentance  unto  life.  Bless  thy  word 
wherever  it  is  spoken,  and  send  it  to  all  places 
where  it  is  not  heard.  Look  with  favor  upon  the 
ministers  of  thy  gospel :  give  them  wisdom  and 
faith  and  zeal,  and  so  bless  thy  word  spoken  by 
their  mouth,  that  the  renovating  doctrines  of  eter- 
nal life  may  be  truly  taught,  truly  received  and 
truly  followed,  and  the  earth  be  filled  with  the 
knowledge  of  the  Lord.  Give  thy  blessing,  we 
beseech  thee,  to  Bible  and  Missionary  societies, 
and  to  all  who  assist  and  labor  and  contribute  for 
the  spread  of  the  gospel,  and  for  the  promotion  of 


172  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  the  Success  of  Missionary  Labors. 

truth  and  godliness.  Remember  them,  O  Lord,  for 
good,  and  prosper  and  reward  their  labor  of  love. 

Grant,  O  God,  we  beseech  thee,  that  thy  minis- 
tering servants,  who  have  left  their  homes,  their 
friends,  and  their  country,  to  publish  thy  truth  in 
foreign  climes,  may  be  under  thy  special  care  and 
keeping.  Preserve  them,  O  thou  Father  of  mercies, 
from  perils  by  land  and  perils  by  water ;  from  sick- 
ness, from  enemies,  and  from  every  evil  to  which 
they  may  be  exposed.  Give  them  such  wisdom 
and  such  success  that  they  may  be  instruments  of 
turning  many  to  righteousness,  and  hereafter  shine 
35  the  brightness  of  the  firmament,  and  as  the  stars, 
forever  and  ever.  Guide  and  bless  them,  we  be- 
seech thee,  in  every  effort  to  extend  the  knowledge 
of  Jesus  Christ. 

And  be  merciful,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  to  the 
perishing  souls  among  whom  they  labor.  Do  thou, 
who  desirest  not  the  death  of  a  sinner,  but  rather 
that  he  should  be  converted  and  live  to  thee,  have 
mercy  upon 'all  who  are  living  in  sin,  and  give 
them  repentance  towards  thee,  the  true  God,  and 
faith  towards  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  they  may 
be  saved  among  the  true  Israelites,  and  become  one 
fold  under  one  Shepherd. 

And  grant,  O  blessed  Lord,  that  the  stewards  of 
thy  mysteries  who  labor  among  us  in  word  and 
doctrine,  may  be  endued  with  wisdom  from  on 
high ;  and  that  we  may  so  profit  by  their  ministry, 
that  in  the  last  day.  when  our  Savior  Christ  shall 
come  in  glorious  majesty  to  judge  the  world,  we 
may  rise  to  life  immortal,  through  him  who  liveth 
and  reigneth  with  thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  ever 
one  God,  world  without  end.  Amen. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  173 

A  Prayer  for  Missionary  Societies,  &c. 


A  Prayer  for  Missionary  Societies,  and  suitable  to  be  used  in  their 
Meetings. 

O  BLESSED  Lord  God,  who  art  exalted  above  the 
heavens,  and  yet,  through  thine  infinite  mercy,  hast 
so  loved  th«  world,  as  to  give  thine  only  Son  to  be 
our  Savior,  and  the  author  of  everlasting  life  ;  who, 
after  he  had  made  perfect  our  redemption  by  his 
death  and  resurrection,  sent  abroad  into  the  world 
apostles  and  prophets  and  other  ministers,  to  preach 
the  gospel  to  every  creature,  and  to  make  disciples 
of  all  nations ;  for  these,  so  great  benefits  of  thy  eter- 
nal goodness,  and  that  thou  art  still  calling  thy  mi- 
nistering servants  to  the  same  labor  of  love,  and  dost 
inspire  in  the  hearts  of  many  people  a  pious  desire 
to  strengthen  their  hand,  and  to  promote  the  spread 
of  thy  gospel,  and  the  salvation  of  mankind,  we 
render  thee  most  hearty  thanks;  we  bless  and 
praise  thy  holy  name. 

Accept,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  our  prayers 
and  supplications  for  the  ministers  of  thy  gospel ; 
give  them  such  wisdom  and  faith  and  zeal,  and  so 
bless  thy  word  spoken  by  their  mouth,  that  thy 
work  may  prosper  in  their  hands,  and  that  humble, 
believing  souls  may  in  vast  numbers  fly  to  thy 
church  as  doves  to  their  windows.  Behold  in 
mercy  all  those  throughout  the  world  who  are  in 
the  darkness  of  error  or  of  unbelief.  Take  from 
them,  we  beseech  thee,  all  ignorance,  hardness  of 
heart,  and  opposition  to  thy  holy  word;  and  so 
fetch  them  home,  blessed  Lord,  to  thy  flock,  that 
they  may  be  saved  among  the  remnant  of  the  true 
Israelites,  and  become  one  fold  under  one  Shepherd, 
Jesus  Christ. 

Give  thy  blessing,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  to 
all  Missionary  associations,  and  to  all  those  who 
contribute  to  support  the  preaching  of  the  gospel, 


174  ORISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Another  for  a  Missionary  Society. 

and  labor  to  extend  the  borders  of  the  Redeemer's 
kingdom.  Wilt  thou  rule  their  hearts,  enlarge  their 
means,  bless  them  in  their  pious  labors,  and  remem- 
ber them  for  good. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to  look  down  with  thy 
favor  and  blessing  upon  us,  who,  through  thy  mer- 
ciful goodness,  are  here  assembled.  Help  us  to 
know  thy  truth,  to  do  thy  will,  and  to  live  to  thy 
glory.  Direct  us  in  our  humble  efforts  to  extend 
the  knowledge  of  thy  truth,  and  the  ministrations 
of  thy  gospel  to  those  who  need  them.  [Accept,  O 
Lord,  our  alms  and  oblations.]  Grant  that  what 
is  cast  into  thy  treasury  may  be  so  disposed  of  and 
applied,  as  to  aid  in  extending  the  knowledge  of  thy 
salvation,  and  increasing  the  practice  of  pure  and 
undefiled  religion.  May  all  we  do  be  by  us  de- 
signed, and  by  thee  directed,  to  the  setting  forth  of 
thy  praise,  and  to  the  salvation  of  ourselves  and 
others.  Assist  us  mercifully,  O  Lord,  with  thy 
heavenly  grace,  and  dispose  all  our  ways  towards 
the  attainment  of  everlasting  salvation  ;  and  in  all 
the  changes  and  perils  of  this  mortal  life,  may  we 
ever  be  defended  by  thy  most  gracious  and  ready 
help,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord*  And  may 
the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  be  with  us  ever- 
more. Amen. 


Another  for  a  Missionary  Society. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everliving  God,  unto  whom  all 
hearts  are  open,  all  desires  known,  and  from  whom 
no  secrets  are  hid,  cleanse  the  thoughts  of  our 
hearts  by  the  inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit,  that 
we  may  perfectly  love  thee,  and  on  this  occasion, 
with  thankful  hearts  and  holy  affections,  come  be- 
fore thee  with  prayer  and  praise.  We  bless  thy 
holy  name  that  thou  hast  given  thine  only  Son 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  175 

Another  for  a  Missionary  Society. 

Jesus  Christ  to  be  the  Savior  of  the  world,  and  that 
thou  hast  commanded  the  good  tidings  of  pardon 
and  life,  through  him,  to  be  proclaimed  and  taught 
to  all  mankind.  Praised  be  thy  name  that  thou 
hast  vouchsafed  to  call  us  to  the  knowledge  of  thy 
grace  and  faith  in  thee.  We  bless  thee,  O  God, 
that  we  live  in  a  land  where  the  gospel  is  preached 
and  thy  word  is  known.  Make  us,  we  beseech  thee, 
duly  thankful  for  these  and  for  all  thy  mercies; 
and  give  us  grace  to  show  forth  thy  praise,  by  a 
holy  zeal  for  enlarging  the  borders  of  the  Redeem- 
er's kingdom,  and  imparting  the  light  of  thy  holy 
word  to  those  who  are  in  spiritual  darkness,  and  in 
the  ignorance  of  unbelief.  Be  gracious  unto  thy 
church ;  grant  that  every  member  of  it  may  serve 
thee  faithfully.  May  it  be  so  guided  by  thy  good 
Spirit,  that  all  who  profess  and  call  themselves 
Christians  may  be  led  into  the  way  of  truth,  and 
hold  the  faith,  once  delivered  to  the  saints,  in  unity 
of  spirit,  in  the  bond  of  peace,  and  in  righteous- 
ness of  life.  Send  down,  we  beseech  thee,  upon 
our  bishops  and  other  clergy,  and  upon  the  con- 
gregations committed  to  their  charge,  the  healthful 
spirit  of  thy  grace ;  and  that  they  may  truly  please 
thee,  pour  upon  them  the  continual  dew  of  thy 
blessing.  Bless  thy  word  wherever  it  is  spoken, 
and  send  it  to  those  places  where  it  is  not  heard. 
Inspire  with  heavenly  wisdom  and  holy  zeal  all 
the  ministers  of  thy  gospel,  and  those  especially 
who,  as  missionaries  and  evangelists,  labor  to  ex- 
tend the  borders  of  the  Redeemer's  kingdom. 

And  we  implore  thy  blessing  upon  those  who  as- 
sociate and  who  contribute  of  their  substance  to 
support  and  to  extend  the  preaching  of  thy  word 
and  the  ministrations  of  the  Savior's  gospel ;  and 
especially  upon  thy  people  who  are  now,  by  thy 
gracious  permission,  here  assembled.  Accept,  O 
Lord,  our  alms  anr!  oblations  ;  and  grant  that  what 


176  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Another  Prayer  suitable  for  Clerical  or  Missionary  Associations. 

has  been  and  shall  be  cast  into  thy  treasury,  or 
given  for  missionary  purposes,  and  other  pious  use, 
may  be  so  disposed  of  and  applied,  as  to  be  the 
means  of  extending  the  knowledge  of  thy  saving 
truth,  and  of  turning  the  hearts  of  the  disobedient 
to  the  wisdom  of  the  just.  And  vouchsafe,  O  Lord, 
so  to  rule  the  hearts  and  bless  the  labors  of  all  thy 
people,  that  the  comfortable  gospel  of  Christ  may  be 
truly  preached,  truly  received  and  truly  followed, 
till  all  the  ends  of  the  earth  shall  rejoice  in  thy  sal- 
vation. 

Awaken  within  us  a  prudent,  godly  zeal,  in  pro- 
moting our  own  and  others'  salvation.  Give  thy 
blessing  to  all  Bible  and  Missionary  societies.  May 
we  never  be  weary  in  well  doing,  but  ever  rejoice  to 
be  instrumental  in  extending  to  others  those  reli- 
gious privileges  which  through  thy  blessing  we 
enjoy.  Direct  us,  O  Lord,  in  all  our  doings,  with 
thy  most  gracious  favor,  and  further  us  \vith  thy 
continual  help,  that  in  all  our  works  and  all  our 
efforts,  we  may  seek  thy  glory  and  do  thy  will ; 
and  finally  obtain  everlasting  life,  through  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


Another  Prayer  suitable  for  Clerical  or  Missionary  Associations. 

O  HOLY,  just  and  merciful  God,  unto  whom  all 
hearts  are  open,  all  desires  known,  and  from  whom 
no  secrets  are  hid,  mercifully  incline  thine  ears  to 
the  prayers  and  supplications  which  we  desire 
humbly  to  ask  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ.  Be- 
hold us  in  mercy ;  forgive  our  sins ;  sanctify  our 
hearts,  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within  us.  Impress 
upon  us  a  just  and  deep  sense  of  thy  goodness  to 
us  and  to  all  men.  Make  us  duly  thankful  for  the 
inestimable  gift  of  a  divine  Savior,  and  for  the 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  177 

Another  Prayer  suitable  for  Clerical  or  Missionary  Associations. 

knowledge  of  thy  grace  and  faith  in  him.  Make 
us  thankful  that  our  lot  has  fallen  in  a  Christian 
land ;  that  the  Holy  Scriptures,  containing  a  reve- 
lation of  thy  will,  are  in  our  hands ;  that  the  gos- 
pel of  salvation  is  preached  in  our  ears ;  that 
means,  and  ordinances,  and  opportunities  are  given 
to  teach  the  doctrines  of  life,  and  build  us  up  in  thy 
holy  faith  and  fear.  Make  us  thankful,  O  Lord, 
for  these  great  blessings,  and  give  us  grace  to  make 
a  right  use  of  them.  May  we  love  the  things  which 
thou  commandest,  and  desire  those  which  thou  dost 
promise ;  and  among  the  manifold  changes  of  this 
world,  may  our  hearts  be  surely  fixed  where  true 
joys  are  to  be  found. 

May  the  light  of  thy  gospel  shine  throughout  the 
world,  and  they  who  have  received  it  live  as  be- 
comes it.  Revive,  O  Lord,  thy  work  amongst  us, 
and  extend  the  light  of  thy  truth  to  all  who  are  still 
living  in  sin  and  in  the  darkness  of  unbelief.  In- 
spire with  holy  zeal  the  ministers  of  the  gospel; 
give  them  such  knowledge  and  utterance,  and  so 
bless  thy  word  spoken  by  their  mouth,  that  the 
saving  doctrines  of  the  cross  may  be  truly  preached, 
truly  received,  and  truly  followed,  and  the  earth  be 
filled  with  the  knowledge  of  the  Lord. 

Awaken  in  the  hearts  of  thy  people  an  earnest 
desire  to  hold  up  the  hands  of  thy  ministers,  and 
help  them  in  fulfilling  their  Master's  command,  to 
preach  the  gospel  to  every  creature.  Give  thy 
blessing,  we  beseech  thee,  to  all  those  who  associate 
for  this  purpose,  and  by  their  substance,  their  coun- 
sel, and  their  prayers,  endeavor  to  aid  in  this  pious 
work.  May  they  never  be  weary  in  well  doing. 
Pour  upon  them  the  abundance  of  thy  blessings : 
may  they  never  want  the  consolations  of  the  faith 
and  hope  which  in  love  they  would  extend  to 
others. 

Be  merciful,  O  Lord,  to  all  mankind.  May  sin- 
L 


178  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Another  Prayer  suitable  for  Clerical  or  Missionary  Associations. 

ners  be  awakened  to  righteousness,  and  turn  to 
thee  with  penitence  and  prayer.  May  they  who 
are  seeking  thy  love,  find  thee  in  a  time  accepted. 
Wilt  thou,  O  Lord,  reveal  thyself  to  them,  as  thou 
dost  not  to  the  world.  Direct  their  hearts  into  the 
love  of  God,  and  into  the  patient  waiting  for  Christ. 
Comfort  and  encourage  them  by  thy  gracious  pro- 
mises of  pardon  and  acceptance.  Those  who  come 
to  thee  in  faith  thou  wilt  not  reject.  O  give  unto 
them  who  ask ;  let  them  who  seek,  find ;  open  the 
door  of  thy  blessed  kingdom  to  those  who  knock, 
that  they  may  find  pardon  and  peace  and  rest  for 
their  souls. 

Keep,  we  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  thy  church  with 
thy  perpetual  mercy.  Grant  that  the  course  of  this 
world  may  be  so  peaceably  ordered  by  thy  govern- 
ance, that  thy  people  may  joyfully  serve  thee  in  all 
godly  quietness.  Being  hurt  by  no  persecutions 
and  discouraged  by  no  trials,  may  we  evermore 
give  thanks  unto  thee  in  thy  holy  church.  And 
because  the  frailty  of  man  without  thee  cannot  but 
fail,  keep  us  ever,  by  thy  help,  from  all  things  hurt- 
ful, and  lead  us  to  all  things  profitable  to  our  salva- 
tion. 

Do  thou,  O  merciful  God,  who  hast  permitted  us 
at  this  time  to  unite  in  supplications  unto  thee,  and 
dost  promise  that  when  two  or  three  are  gathered 
together  in  thy  name,  thou  wilt  grant  their  requests ; 
graciously  hear  and  fulfil  these  our  desires  and  peti- 
tions, which  we  ask  and  present  in  the  name  and 
through  the  mediation  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed 
Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  179 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  Meetings  on  Charitable  Occasions. 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  in  Meetings  on  Charitable  Occasions,  after 
a  Sermon  and  Contribution. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  who,  by  thy  right- 
eous providence,  orderest  all  things  in  heaven  and 
on  earth,  and  whose  mercies  are,  like  thy  years, 
unnumbered,  we  desire  humbly  to  adore  thee  for 
thy  infinite  perfections ;  we  bless  thy  holy  name  for 
thy  manifold  favors  daily  bestowed  upon  us  and 
upon  all  mankind,  both  spiritual  and  temporal; 
and  chiefly  we  adore  thee  for  thy  mercy  in  Jesus 
Christ.  Praised  be  thy  name,  that  thou  hast  been 
pleased  to  call  us  to  the  knowledge  of  thy  grace  and 
faith  in  thee ;  that  we  live  in  a  land  where  the  gos- 
pel is  preached ;  and  that  we  are  permitted  still  to 
hear  it.  We  bless  thee  especially  for  this  opportu- 
nity of  uniting  in  prayer  and  praise  before  thee,  and 
of  hearing  the  counsels  of  thy  word.  May  thy 
truth  be  grafted  inwardly  in  our  hearts,  and  bring 
forth  in  us  the  fruit  of  good  living. 

Thou  hast  taught  us  that  all  our  doings  without 
charity  are  nothing  worth;  send  thy  Holy  Spirit, 
and  pour  into  our  hearts  that  most  excellent  gift 
of  Christian  love,  which  is  the  bond  of  peace  and 
of  all  virtues,  and  without  which  whosoever  liveth 
is  counted  as  dead  before  thee.  Accept,  O  Lord, 
the  alms  and  oblations  and  the  prayers  which  we 
have  offered  before  thee,  not  weighing  our  merits, 
but  pardoning  our  offences.  Inspire  us  with  that 
love  which  is  the  fulfilling  of  the  whole  law.  May 
we,  through  thy  grace,  be  ready  to  every  good 
work,  and  never  be  weary  in  well  doing. 

Behold,  we  beseech  thee,  with  thy  compassionate 
mercy,  all  the  sons  and  daughters  of  sorrow.  Pro- 
vide for  the  fatherless  children  and  widows,  and 
all  who  are  poor  and  needy ;  and  dispose  us  to  be 
bountiful  according  to  our  means,  and  to  pity  those 


180  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Another,  more  general. 

who  need  the  comforts  which,  through  thy  good- 
ness, we  enjoy.  And  when  we  shall  have  served 
thee  in  our  generation,  may  we  be  found  acceptable 
in  thy  sight,  and  receive  that  blessing  which  thy 
well  beloved  Son  shall  pronounce  to  all  who  love 
and  serve  thee,  saying,  Come,  ye  blessed  of  my 
Father,  receive  the  kingdom  prepared  for  you  from 
the  beginning  of  the  world.  Grant  this,  we  beseech 
thee,  O  merciful  God,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Mediator  and  Redeemer.  Amen. 


Another,  more  general. 

O  LORD,  our  heavenly  Father,  whose  blessed  Son, 
Jesus  Christ,  in  tender  love  to  mankind,  did  take 
our  nature  upon  him,  and  did  spend  his  life  in 
works  of  mercy,  and  went  about  doing  good  ;  grant 
that  the  spirit  may  be  in  us  which  was  in  him,  the 
like  benevolence  and  tender  love  for  mankind. 
Make  us  pitiful,  inclined  to  mercy  and  good  works. 
According  to  our  means  and  opportunities,  make 
us  ready  to  give  and  glad  to  distribute,  desir- 
ing through  thy  mercy  and  our  Savior's  merits  to 
lay  up  treasures  in  heaven,  where  moth  and  rust 
cannot  corrupt  them.  May  we  love  our  neighbors 
as  we  love  ourselves,  and  do  to  all  men  as  we  would 
have  them  do  to  us.  May  we  be  ready  and  dis- 
posed to  extend  to  the  destitute  and  needy  such 
charitable  aid  as,  in  a  like  situation,  we  should 
reasonably  desire  to  receive.  May  we  be  merciful 
as  we  hope  to  obtain  mercy,  and  freely  give,  from 
the  consideration  that  we  freely  receive. 

Behold  us,  O  Lord,  with  thy  favor  arid  blessing 
on  this  present  occasion,  and  prosper  the  work 
which  our  hands  now  find  to  do.  Favorably,  \jrith 
mercy,  hear  our  prayer,  and  graciously  accept  what 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  181 

Another  Prayer  for  the  Meeting  of  a  Charitable  Society. 

we  contribute  to  honor  thy  name,  and  to  benefit 
our  fellow-men.  May  all  our  offerings  be  made 
with  pure  hearts  and  charitable  affections ;  may 
they  be  blest  to  the  promotion  of  the  objects  for 
which  they  are  given,  and  be  accepted  of  thee,  O 
thou  God  of  all  mercy  and  grace,  as  a  sacrifice  with 
which  thou  art  well  pleased. 

We  are  sensible,  O  God,  and  may  we  never  for- 
get, that  our  best  deeds  are  without  merit  before 
thee ;  we  would  not  put  our  trust  in  any  thing  that 
we  do.  We  are  unworthy,  through  our  manifold 
sins,  to  offer  unto  thee  any  sacrifice;  yet  we  be- 
seech thee  to  accept  this  our  bounden  duty  and  ser- 
vice, not  weighing  our  merits,  but  pardoning  our 
offences,  and  receiving  our  humble  offerings,  through 
the  merits  and  mediation  of  thy  Son,  our  Savior, 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


Another  Prayer  for  the  Meeting  of  a  Charitable  Society. 

O  LORD  and  merciful  God,  who  hast  taught  us  in 
thy  holy  word  that  the  end  of  the  commandment  is 
charity,  and  hast  promised  that  the  merciful  shall 
obtain  mercy ;  we  beseech  thee  favorably  to  behold 
and  bless  thy  servants,  the  members  of  the  society 
here  present,  who  have  associated  for  the  benevo- 
lent purpose  of  benefiting  their  fellow-creatures. 
[  The  particular  object  of  the  society  may  here  be  ex- 
pressed.} We  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  to  strengthen, 
direct  and  prosper  them  in  this,  their  pious  work 
and  labor  of  love.  Enlarge  still  more  their  hearts 
and  their  means  for  doing  good.  Direct  them  in  all 
they  do  with  thy  most  gracious  favor ;  prosper  them 
with  thy  continual  help,  and  pour  upon  them  the 
abundance  of  thy  grace,  that  their  benevolent 
labors  may  be  extensively  useful,  to  the  glory  and 
16 


182  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  Improvement  in  Sickness. 

praise  of  thy  great  name,  and  to  the  relief  and  com- 
fort of  those  who  need.  Wilt  thou,  O  blessed  Lord, 
remunerate  their  kindness  and  remember  them  for 
good.  Bless  them  in  their  houses  and  their  stores. 
The  Lord  deliver  them  in  the  time  of  trouble :  the 
Lord  preserve  and  keep  them,  that  they  may  be 
blest  upon  the  earth,  and  be  prepared  to  dwell  with 
thee  in  life  everlasting,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.  Amen. 


For  Improvement  in  Sickness.* 

O  GOD  and  merciful  Father,  who  despisest  not 
the  sighing  of  a  contrite  heart,  nor  the  desires  of 
those  who  are  afflicted  or  distressed,  mercifully  as- 
sist us  in  the  prayers  which  we  would  now  make 
before  thee.  Thou  knowest,  Lord,  our  necessities 
before  we  ask,  and  the  imperfection  of  our  sincerest 
prayers.  We  beseech  thee  to  cleanse  our  hearts 
from  the  defilement  of  sin,  and  to  sanctify  our 
thoughts  by  the  inspiration  of  thy  Holy  Spirit.  With 
pity  behold  our  infirmities  and  sorrows,  and  assist 
us  in  the  supplications  and  prayers  which  we  de- 
sire, with  all  due  reverence  and  humility,  to  offer 
before  thee.  Turn  from  us  the  evils  that  we  have 
justly  deserved ;  and  help  us,  in  all  dangers  and 
afflictions,  to  put  our  whole  trust  and  confidence  in 
thy  mercy,  and  patiently  submit  to  thy  holy  will. 
Remember  not,  Lord,  our  offences,  but  thy  mercy 
to  us  in  Jesus  Christ.  Grant  us  that  peace  which 

*  In  the  English  "  Clergyman's  Companion,"  is  a  great  variety  of 
prayers  for  the  sick,  collected  from  many  eminent  divines  of  the  English 
church;  which,  with  extracts  on  other  subjects,  were  republished  in 
New  York  in  1806,  by  the  Rev.  J.  H.  Hobart,  D.  D. ;  and  in  1828,  being 
then  bishop  of  that  diocese,  he  published  another  edition,  with  altera- 
tions and  additions.  As  tnose  excellent  compilations  are  probably  in 
the  hands  of  most  of  our  clergy,  I  have  inserted  in  this  work  fewer 
prayers  for  the  use  of  the  sick. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  183 

For  Improvement  in  Sickness. 

the  world  cannot  give,  and  that  comfort  of  hope 
which  we  are  not  worthy  to  ask,  but  in  his  most 
holy  name. 

Trusting  not  in  ourselves,  but  in  his  merits,  and 
in  thy  gracious  promise  to  hear  our  prayers  for  the 
sick  and  afflicted,  we  humbly  beseech  thee  to  look 
down,  with  favor  and  compassion,  upon  [this  fami- 
ly visited  with  affliction.  With  pity  behold  their 
fears  and  their  sorrows,  and  support  and  comfort 
and  bless  them,  according  as  they  have  need.  Pre- 
pare them,  we  beseech  thee,  for  every  event  of  thy 
providence.  And  wilt  thou,  O  merciful  God,  visit 
with  the  consolations  of  thy  comfort  and  peace]  this 
thy  servant,  visited  with  sickness.  [Here  the  par- 
ticular case  may  be  named.}  Look  upon  him  with 
the  eyes  of  thy  mercy.  If  it  be  consistent  with  thy 
goodness,  preserve  him,  we  beseech  thee,  from 
bodily  pains  and  distress,  and  from  all  needless 
doubts  and  fears  and  faithless  apprehensions.  May 
his  reason  be  clear,  his  mind  composed,  and  his 
thoughts  occupied  with  spiritual  things ;  and  what- 
ever trials  and  sufferings  it  may  seem  good  to  thee 
to  inflict,  grant  him,  we  beseech  thee,  patience  to 
bear  the  rod,  and  grace  to  know  who  hath  appoint- 
ed it.  According  to  his  day,  so  may  his  strength 
be.  May  his  soul,  being  awakened  to  righteous- 
ness and  renewed  by  grace,  rely  upon  thy  mercy, 
confident  that  thou  art  wise  and  good  in  all  thy 
dealings,  and  that  thou  lovest  those  whom  thy  hand 
correcteth.  Give  him  a  deep  sense  of  thy  power 
arid  authority  over  all  the  works  of  thy  hand. 
Knowing  that  the  Lord  is  just,  may  every  murmur- 
ing thought  be  suppressed,  and  patience  have  its 
perfect  work  in  a  cheerful  resignation  to  thy  uner- 
ring will.  May  he  wait  thy  pleasure  with  humble 
submission,  knowing  that  thou  art  patient  with  a 
returning  sinner,  and  that  all  things  work  for  good 
to  those  who  love  and  fear  thee. 


184  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  Improvement  in  Sickness. 

And  grant,  O  Lord,  that  he  may  be  more  desirous 
that  this  affliction  should  be  sanctified,  than  that  it 
should  be  removed.  Give  him  grace  to  profit  by 
this  visitation,  as  an  occasion  of  spiritual  improve- 
ment. May  it  awaken  in  his  mind  a  more  lively 
sense  of  the  shortness  and  uncertainty  of  this  pre- 
sent life,  and  of  the  vast  importance  of  being  pre- 
pared for  a  future  state.  Grant  him  that  repent- 
ance which  is  not  to  be  repented  of,  and  that  faith 
in  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ  which  reneweth  the  heart, 
worketh  by  love,  and  overcometh  the  world.  May 
he  look  unto  Jesus  as  the  author  and  finisher  of  his 
faith,  and  the  end  of  the  law  for  righteousness  to 
those  who  believe.  O  visit  him  with  thy  salvation : 
support  him  by  thy  grace  ;  do  for  him,  and  work  in 
him,  whatever  is  necessary  for  his  present  comfort 
and  eternal  good ;  and  grant  him  such  a  lively  hope 
of  thy  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ,  that  he  may  say  with 
thy  apostle,  For  me  to  live  is  Christ,  and  to  die  is 
gain. 

But  thou  knowest,  Lord,  the  weakness  of  our 
nature,  and  how  little  it  is  that  we  can  bear.  That 
his  patience  fail  not,  and  for  the  glory  of  thy  great 
name,  wilt  thou  return  in  mercy  and  say  to  this 
affliction,  It  is  enough.  All  medicines  act  by  thy 
decree ;  all  means  prevail  if  thou  shall  bless  them. 
Bless,  we  beseech  thee,  the  means  and  remedies 
used  and  applied  for  restoring  our  brother  to  health 
and  ease.  Give  wisdom  to  those  who  minister,  and 
strength  to  him  who  receives  them.  But  let  no 
confidence  in  natural  means  or  human  skill  dimi- 
nish his  hope  and  trust  in  thee.  If  it  be  thy  good 
pleasure  that  his  health  may  be  restored,  may  his 
love  to  thee  increase,  and  a  thankful  sense  of  thy 
goodness  induce  him  to  devote  the  residue  of  his 
life  to  the  God  who  giveth  it.  May  the  remainder 
of  his  days  be  spent  in  thy  service  and  to  thy  glory. 
And  whatever  may  be  thy  wise  purpose  respecting 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  185 

For  a  Person  in  a  Decline,  or  dangerously  sick. 

his  term  of  days  here  on  the  earth,  give  him  grace, 
we  beseech  thee,  so  to  take  thy  visitation,  that, 
after  this  painful  life  is  ended,  he  may  dwell  with 
thee  in  life  everlasting.  Dispose  his  heart,  to  re- 
turn his  spirit  willingly  to  thee  who  gavest  it,  as 
into  the  hands  of  a  faithful  Creator ;  and  with  great 
humility  and  a  deep  sense  of  thy  goodness,  to  look 
and  hope  for  thy  salvation  in  Jesus  Christ. 

And  grant,  O  Lord,  that  each  and  all  of  us,  in 
our  best  estate  of  health,  may  seriously  consider, 
and  continually  remember,  how  frail  and  sinful  and 
mortal  we  are.  May  we  not  boast  ourselves  of  to- 
morrow, nor  forget  our  dependence  upon  thee.  May 
we  not  abuse  thy  patience  and  long-suffering  by 
sinful  vanities,  nor  incumber  our  minds  with  need- 
less cares,  deceitful  pleasures,  or  unprofitable  pur- 
suits of  this  present  world.  Grant  us  grace  to  pass 
the  time  of  our  sojourning  here  in  thy  faith  and 
fear  ;  and  to  live  so  righteously,  soberly  and  godly 
in  this  present  world,  as  becometh  those  who  must 
shortly  die ;  as  becometh  those  who  are  redeemed 
from  death  by  the  precious  blood  of  Jesus  Christ ; 
as  becometh  those  who  must  soon  appear  before 
thy  judgment  seat.  Hear  us,  O  merciful  God,  we 
humbly  beseech  thee,  for  thy  mercy's  sake  in  Jesus 
Christ.  Amen. 


For  a  Person  in  a  Decline,  or  dangerously  sick. 

O  MOST  merciful  and  gracious  God,  who  art  the 
hope  of  all  the  ends  of  the  earth,  and  our  only  re- 
fuge in  distress,  with  great  reverence  and  humility, 
and  a  deep  sense  of  our  unworthiness,  we  would 
bow  ourselves  in  the  dust  before  thee.  To  thee  be- 
long mercies  and  forgiveness,  though  we  have  sin- 
ned and  done  wickedly.  Remember  not,  Lord,  our 


186  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  a  Person  in  a  Decline,  or  dangerously  sick. 

offences,  but  thy  mercy  to  mankind  in  Jesus  Christ. 
For  his  sake  we  beseech  thee  to  blot  out  our  of- 
fences, and  forgive  our  multiplied  transgressions. 

Most  just  art  thou,  O  Lord,  in  all  thy  dealings 
with  the  sons  of  men.  Affliction  cometh  not  of  the 
dust ;  thy  righteous  providence  governeth  all  things 
here  below.  Sickness  and  pains  and  sorrows  are 
the  dispensations  of  thy  hand,  and  are  less  than 
our  sins  deserve.  In  the  midst  of  life  we  are  in 
death  ;  to  whom  can  we  fly  for  help  and  salvation 
but  unto  thee  who  for  our  sins  art  justly  displeased ! 

Trusting  in  thy  compassionate  mercy,  we  beseech 
thee,  O  God,  to  accept  our  prayers  and  intercessions 
for  this  thy  servant.  Do  thou,  to  whom  belong  the 
issues  of  life  and  death,  and  in  whom  alone  dwell- 
eth  all  the  fulness  of  mercy  and  grace,  strengthen, 
support  and  comfort  him  according  to  the  necessity 
of  his  case.  Give  him  unfeigned  repentance  for  all 
the  errors  of  his  life  past,  and  a  steadfast  faith  in 
thy  Son  Jesus  Christ.  Endue  his  soul  with  pa- 
tience and  resignation  to  thy  holy  will.  Enable 
him  to  see  love  in  thy  rod  and  justice  in  thy  deal- 
ings, and  to  bow  in  submission  before  thee.  May 
he  neither  despise  thy  chastening  nor  faint  under 
thy  rebukes,  but  make  improvement  from  this  visi- 
tation, as  an  opportunity  for  his  soul's  benefit. 
May  his  heart  be  raised  in  hope  and  love  to  thee. 
Reveal  to  his  soul  the  comforts  of  thy  mercy  in 
Jesus  Christ,  and  of  thy  reconciled  countenance. 
Forsake  him  not  in  this  momentous  trial  of  his 
faith  and  patience,  but  visit  him  with  thy  salva- 
tion. Preserve  him,  if  such  be  thy  good  pleasure, 
from  bodily  pains,  and  discouragement  of  mind. 
Whatever  of  good  is  fitting  for  us  to  ask  and  for 
him  to  receive,  we  beseech  thee  in  thy  mercy  to 
bestow.  Prolong  his  days  here  on  the  earth,  for 
the,  comfort  of  his  friends,  and  that  he  may  do  good 
in  his  generation.  Bless  the  food  and  the  remedies 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  187 

' For  a  Person  in  a  Decline,  or  dangerously  sick. 

administered  to  the  increase  of  his  bodily  strength, 
and,  if  it  be  thy  good  pleasure,  to  his  restoration  to 
perfect  health.  Do  thou,  who  heardst  the  prayers 
of  Hezekiah  on  the  bed  of  sickness,  lengthen  his 
years  on  earth,  and  help  him  to  devote  them  to  thee 
in  a  holy  and  obedient  walking  before  thee. 

But  if  thou  hast  in  thy  wisdom  otherwise  ap- 
pointed, and  whether  sooner  or  later  it  shall  be  thy 
pleasure  to  remove  him  from  this  life,  fit  and  pre- 
pare him,  we  humbly  beseech  thee,  for  immortal 
blessedness.  Reform  whatever  is  amiss  in  the  tem- 
per and  disposition  of  his  mind.  Give  him  un- 
feigned repentance  for  all  the  sins  of  his  past  life  ; 
mercifully  forgive  whatever  offences  he  may  have 
committed  against  thee.  Grant  him  a  sound  and 
steadfast  and  victorious  faith  in  our  Savior  Christ. 
Raise  his  affections  from  the  things  of  this  world  to 
the  joys  of  immortality.  Make  his  repentance  per- 
fect, his  faith  lively  and  strong,  his  hope  steadfast, 
his  reason  clear,  his  patience  unshaken,  his  sub- 
mission humble,  and  his  resignation  complete.  And 
when  the  lamp  of  life  shall  expire,  when  the  time 
shall  come,  whether  soon,  or  at  some  distant  peri- 
od, that  his  soul  shall  be  freed  from  its  mortal  pri- 
son, may  it  find  a  safe  and  easy  passage  to  the 
world  above;  and,  being  washed  and  sanctified  in 
the  blood  of  Christ,  be  numbered  among  the  spirits 
of  just  men  made  perfect. 

And  now,  what,  Lord,  is  our  hope?  truly  our 
hope  is  in  thee.  Whom  else  have  we  in  heaven, 
and  what  is  there  on  earth  that  we  can  reasonably 
desire  in  comparison  of  thee,  our  God  and  Savior  1 
Make  us  ever  mindful  of  the  time  when  we  shall 
lie  down  to  sleep  in  the  dust.  May  we  so  apply 
our  hearts  unto  true  wisdom,  that  we  may  die  the 
death  of  the  righteous,  and  our  last  end  be  like  his. 
Thou  knowest,  Lord,  the  secrets  of  our  hearts ; 
shut  not  thy  merciful  ears  to  our  prayers,  but  spare 


188  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  a  sick  Person. 

us,  good  Lord,  spare  the  people  whom  thou  hast 
redeemed  with  thy  precious  blood.  O  holy,  just 
and  merciful  God,  thou  righteous  Savior  of  a  sinful 
world,  deliver  us  not  into  the  bitter  pains  of  eternal 
death.  Preserve  us  through  life  from  the  peril  of 
temptation,  and  suffer  us  not,  at  our  last  hour,  for 
any  fear  of  death,  to  fall  from  thee.  Raise  us,  we 
beseech  thee,  from  the  death  of  sin  to  a  life  of  right- 
eousness, that  when  we  depart  this  life  we  may  rest 
in  Jesus  Christ ;  and  at  the  general  resurrection,  in 
the  last  day,  be  found  acceptable  in  thy  sight,  and 
receive,  through  the  merits  of  the  Savior's  blood, 
the  rewards  and  felicity  prepared  for  the  righteous 
in  heaven.  With  those  who  have  departed  this 
life  in  thy  faith  and  fear,  may  we  have  our  perfect 
consummation  and  bliss,  in  thy  eternal  kingdom  of 
life  and  glory,  through  the  merits  of  our  Lord  and 
Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  a  Sick  Person,  when  there  appeareth  but  little  or  no  hope 
of  recovery. 

O  FATHER  of  mercies  and  God  of  all  comfort, 
with  whom  belong  the  issues  of  life  and  death,  and 
who  art  our  only  hope  in  time  of  danger  or  dis- 
tress, with  deep  reverence  and  humility  we  would 
look  unto  thee  for  succor  in  behalf  of  this  thy  ser- 
vant here  lying  under  thy  hand  in  great  weakness 
of  body.  Behold  him,  O  Lord,  in  mercy,  and  sup- 
port him  with  thy  heavenly  grace  ;  though  the  out- 
ward man  decay  and  nature  fail,  strengthen  him, 
we  beseech  thee,  with  thy  Holy  Spirit.  Remember 
not,  Lord,  his  offences  past ;  grant  him,  O  merciful 
God,  through  the  merits  of  a  righteous  Savior,  re- 
pentance unfeigned  and  sincere  for  all  his  sins,  and 
that  righteousness  which  is  by  faith  in  Jesus  Christ. 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  189 

A  Prayer  for  a.  sick  Person. 

Shouldst  thou  be  extreme  to  mark  iniquities,  O 
Lord,  who  could  stand !  but  there  is  forgiveness 
with  thee,  that  thou  mayst  be  feared.  Let  thine 
ears  be  attentive  to  our  humble  supplications  ;  may 
thy  forgiveness  be  extended  to  this  our  brother,  who, 
in  this  hour  of  bodily  weakness,  and  in  this  mo- 
mentous trial  of  his  faith  and  hope,  would  look 
unto  thee  who  alone  canst  save.  With  confidence 
in  thy  mercy,  and  trusting  in  thy  gracious  pro- 
mises, we  would  commend  him  into  thy  hands,  as 
into  the  hands  of  a  faithful  Creator,  and  a  merciful 
Savior ;  praying  that  thou  wilt  work  in  him  and  do 
for  him  what  shall  be  best  for  his  present  comfort, 
and  for  his  eternal  good.  Preserve  him,  O  God,  if 
it  be  consistent  with  thy  wisdom,  from  bodily 
pains,  and  bless  whatever  shall  be  ministered  for 
his  comfort  and  ease.  May  he  have  strength  and 
patience  to  bear  whatever  thy  just  hand  shall  in- 
flict, and  grace  to  make  all  the  improvement  from 
this  sickness  which  thy  wisdom  intendeth. 

There  is  nothing,  O  Lord,  impossible  with  thee. 
Shouldst  thou  speak  the  word,  he  would  be  restored 
to  health ;  and  we  beseech  thee,  O  God,  if  it  be 
consistent  with  thy  unerring  wisdom,  that  thou 
wilt  raise  him  up  and  grant  him  a  longer  continu- 
ance on  the  earth.  O  spare  him  a  little,  before  he 
go  hence  and  be  no  more  seen  !  If  thy  wisdom  has 
otherwise  appointed,  O  be  thou  merciful  to  his  soul, 
and  fit  and  prepare  him  for  a  happier  state.  Sanc- 
tify his  heart,  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within  him. 
Preserve  him  from  the  temptations  of  the  enemy, 
and  from  all  desponding  fears.  May  he  know  and 
feel  that  thou  art  a  God,  mighty  to  save  ;  and  plead 
with  thee,  in  a  lively  faith,  the  merits  of  an  infinite 
Savior.  And  when  thou  shalt  call  him  hence,  may 
he  depart  in  peace,  and  his  soul  be  received  into 
those  heavenly  mansions  which  the  Savior  has  pre- 
pared for  those  who  love  him. 


190  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  a  sick  Person. 

And  teach  those  of  us,  O  God,  who  survive 
amidst  the  daily  scenes  of  mortality  which  surround 
us,  to  realize  how  short  and  uncertain  is  human 
life,  that  whatever  our  hands  find  to  do,  we  may  do 
it  with  all  diligence  and  care,  before  that  night 
cometh  in  which  no  man  can  work.  Teach  us  to 
watch  and  to  pray,  and  to  remember  that  the  Son 
of  man  cometh  at  an  hour  which  we  know  not. 
Thou,  Lord,  only  knowest  how  soon  we  shall  be 
as  water  spilt  on  the  ground.  May  we  ever  be 
mindful  of  the  one  thing  needful,  and  finish  our 
work  before  our  course  is  done.  Hear  us,  O  Lord, 
we  beseech  thee,  for  thy  mercy's  sake  in  Jesus 
Christ.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  a  Sick  Person,  when  there  is  reason  to  hope  that  he  is 
convalescent. 

MERCIFUL  and  gracious  God,  the  Giver  and  the 
Preserver  of  our  lives,  we  desire  to  approach  thee, 
in  humble  confidence  that  thou  wilt  hear  the  prayer 
of  faith,  and  impart  thy  grace  to  those  who  need. 
We  know,  and  we  thankfully  acknowledge,  that  all 
things,  in  heaven  and  on  earth,  are  at  thy  just  and 
wise  disposal,  and  that  not  a  sparrow  falleth  ex- 
cept the  Lord  permit.  We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to 
pardon  our  sins,  and  to  accept  the  supplications  and 
prayers  which,  with  all  due  reverence  and  submis- 
sion, we  desire  now  to  present  before  thee.  May 
we  come  before  thee  with  penitence  and  faith; 
with  a  thankful  sense  of  thy  unnumbered  mercies, 
and  with  a  holy  confidence  in  thy  word  and  pro- 
mises, revealed  in  Jesus  Christ.  Permit  us,  O  Lord, 
[again]  to  plead  with  thee  in  behalf  of  this  our  sick 
brother,  who  [still]  would  look  unto  thee  for  suc- 
cor. Most  cordially  do  we  unite  with  him  in  hum- 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  191 

A  Prayer  for  a  sick  Person. 

ble,  grateful  and  devout  acknowledgments  of  thy 
great  and  manifold  goodness  vouchsafed  to  him  at 
all  times,  and  especially  during  his  present  sick- 
ness. We  bless  thee,  O  Lord,  that  thou  hast  not 
forsaken  him  in  this  trial  of  his  faith  and  patience ; 
but  hast  visited  him  with  many  comforts,  [and  en- 
abled him  to  bear  this  visitation  with  resignation  to 
thy  holy  will ;  that  thou  hast,  as  we  humbly 
hope  and  trust,  brought  him  nearer  to  thyself,  and 
revealed  to  his  soul  the  comforts  of  thy  love  in  Je- 
sus Christ]  We  thank  thee  that  he  is  surrounded 
with  kind  friends,  and  with  many  temporal  com- 
forts. [We  bless  thee,  O  thou  God  of  all  mercy, 
that,  as  we  have  reason  to  hope,  thou  hast  sent  him 
relief,  and  that  his  sickness  has  abated.]  Thou 
art  able  to  give  him  full  strength,  and  to  raise  him 
up  to  perfect  health.  We  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  if 
it  be  consistent  with  thy  wisdom,  that  thou  wilt  ex- 
tend to  him  this  great  blessing ;  that  thou  wilt  give 
medicine  to  heal  his  sickness,  and  prosper  the  means 
and  remedies  ministered  and  applied,  to  his  entire 
relief.  He  is  weak,  but  thou  art  almighty  :  he  is 
brought  low,  but  speak  the  word  only,  and  he  shall 
be  made  whole.  Restore  him,  we  beseech  thee,  to 
health  of  body,  vigor  of  mind,  and  cheerfulness  of 
spirit,  that  he  may  go  to  thy  house,  and  offer  thee, 
with  great  gladness,  the  sacrifice  of  praise  and 
thanksgiving,  the  fruit  of  his  lips,  and  the  oblation 
of  his  heart :  may  he  pay  his  vows  in  the  presence 
of  all  thy  people,  and  spend  the  remainder  of  his 
days  in  a  holy  and  obedient  walking  in  the  way  of 
thy  commandments. 

And  wilt  thou,  O  God,  refresh  his  mind  with 
spiritual  comforts.  Dispose  him,  in  all  things,  to 
submit  to  thy  righteous  will.  May  he  not  be  im- 
patient under  thy  hand,  but,  through  thy  grace,  be- 
have suitably  in  every  trial,  and  perform  every  duty 
which  thou  requirest.  Sanctify  this  visitation,  to 


192  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  a  sick  Person. 

the  purifying  of  his  heart  from  all  sinful  affections, 
and  building  him  up  in  thy  holy  faith,  till  he  arrives 
at  the  perfect  stature  of  the  fullness  of  Christ. 
Grant  him  a  lively  hope  in  thy  heavenly  promises, 
which  shall  be  a  helmet  of  salvation  upon  his  head. 
O  may  his  whole  heart  and  soul  be  more  and  more 
conformed  to  the  Savior's  image.  May  the  un- 
certainty of  life  and  the  frailty  of  this  mortal  na- 
ture, raise  the  more  earnestly  his  hopes  and  desires 
to  the  immortal  glories  of  the  Redeemer's  kingdom, 
and  the  endless  joys  of  the  world  to  come. 

And  we  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  to  behold,  with 
thy  favor  and  blessing,  all  the  sick  and  afflicted, 
bestowing  upon  them  temporal  comforts  and  spiri- 
tual consolations.  Awakened  by  the  visitations  of 
thy  mighty  hand  to  a  deep  sense  of  the  one  thing 
needful,  may  their  thoughts  and  their  hopes  be 
raised  to  thee.  Give  them  repentance  towards  God, 
and  faith  towards  the  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  that  their 
sins  may  be  done  away  by  thy  mercy,  and  their 
pardon  sealed  in  heaven  before  they  depart  to  the 
eternal  world.  May  they  whom  thy  rod  correcteth 
neither  despise  thy  chastenings,  nor  faint  under  thy 
rebukes,  but  make  improvement  from  their  sorrows 
to  the  benefit  of  their  souls. 

And  we  bless  thy  holy  name  for  all  thy  servants 
departed  this  life  in  thy  faith  and  fear,  beseeching 
thee  to  give  us  grace  so  to  follow  their  good  exam- 
ples, that  with  them  we  may  be  partakers  of  thy 
heavenly  kingdom.  Hear  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech 
thee,  for  Christ's  sake,  and  hear  the  prayer  which 
he  has  taught  us  : 

Our  Father  who  art,  &c.     Amen. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  193 

A  Prayer  for  one  who  is  not  able  to  unite  understandingly  in  it. 


A  Prayer  for  one  who,  from  the  nature  of  his  sickness  or  other  cause,  is 
not  able  to  unite  understandingly  in  it. 

O  GOD  and  merciful  Father,  who  despisest  not 
the  sighing  of  a  contrite  heart,  nor  the  humble  de- 
sires of  those  who  look  to  thee  for  aid,  mercifully 
behold  our  sorrows  and  hear  our  prayers.  In  the 
midst  of  life  we  are  exposed  to  sickness,  pains  and 
death.  To  whom  can  we  fly  for  refuge  in  distress 
but  unto  thee,  O  God,  who,  for  our  sins,  art  justly 
displeased,  and  art  of  purer  eyes  than  to  behold 
evil.  Holy  and  just  art  thou  in  all  thy  ways,  and 
righteous  and  merciful  in  thy  dealings  with  the  chil- 
dren of  men.  Humbly  we  implore  thy  forgiveness 
of  our  manifold  transgressions.  With  pity  behold 
the  sorrows  of  our  hearts  and  the  infirmity  of  our 
nature,  and  turn  from  us  those  evils  which  we  just- 
ly have  deserved. 

May  we  be  duly  thankful,  that  amidst  the  mani- 
fold sorrows  of  this  mortal  state,  thou  art  a  God  of 
refuge,  hearing  prayer  and  pitying  the  distressed. 
In  the  confidence  of  this  faith,  we  beseech  thee,  O 
Lord,  to  accept  our  supplications  and  prayers  for 
those  who  are  unable  to  pray  for  themselves  ;  who 
by  reason  of  mental  disorder,  or  bodily  weakness 
or  distress,  are  not  able  to  call  on  thee  for  what 
they  need.  Though  we  are  unworthy,  by  reason 
of  our  sins,  to  pray  on  our  own  behalf,  and  to  of- 
fer unto  thee  any  sacrifice,  yet  we  beseech  thee,  O 
God,  to  permit  us  to  intercede  particularly  for  this 
thy  servant,  beseeching  thee  to  compassionate  his 
infirmity.  Whatever  good  is  fitting  for  us  to  ask, 
and  for  him  to  receive,  we  beseech  thee,  in  thy 
merciful  goodness,  to  bestow.  Write  not  his  sins 
against  him,  O  thou  Preserver  of  men,  but  remem- 
ber thy  love  in  Jesus  Christ.  Thou  knowest,  Lord, 
17  M 


194  GRISWOLD'S  PRATERS. 

A  Prayer  for  one  who  is  not  able  to  unite  understandingly  in  it. 

his  case,  and  his  thoughts,  and  what  he  needs ;  vre 
beseech  thee  to  strengthen  and  relieve  him,  accord- 
ing to  his  necessities.  So  far  as  he  is  now  capable 
of  knowing  thy  will  and  his  duty,  may  he  be  re- 
signed and  submissive  ;  trusting  in  the  merits  of  a 
righteous  Savior.  Enlighten  his  mind  with  thy 
heavenly  grace.  Hear  the  prayers  of  his  friends. 
The  less  able  he  is  to  pray  for  himself,  the  more 
earnest  should  be  our  supplications  on  his  behalf. 
Preserve  him,  we  beseech  thee,  from  bodily  pains. 
Bless  to  his  use  and  benefit  the  food  and  medicine 
which  may  be  administered.  Restore  him,  if  it  be 
consistent  with  thy  unerring  wisdom,  to  health  of 
body  and  to  soundness  and  vigor  of  mind,  that  At* 
soul  may  bless  thy  holy  name.  Sanctify  his  suffer- 
ings to  the  benefit  of  his  soul,  and  to  the  promotion 
of  his  salvation  in  Jesus  Christ. 

Blessed  be  thy  holy  name,  that  in  the  midst  of 
judgment  thou  rememberest  mercy  ;  that  thou 
lovest  those  whom  thy  rod  correcteth  ;  that  thou 
givest  ease  to  torturing  pains,  mingling  many  com- 
forts with  life's  bitterest  portion.  Shall  we  receive 
good  at  thy  hand,  and  shall  we  not  receive  evil  7 
Help  us,  in  all  the  sufferings  and  other  trials  of 
life,  to  say  with  our  blessed  Savior,  Not  as  we  will, 
but  as  thou  wilt. 

All  flesh  is  as  grass,  and  passeth  away  as  the 
flower  of  the  field.  Make  us  deeply  sensible  of  the 
shortness  and  uncertainty  of  human  life,  and  let 
thy  Spirit  guide  and  support  us  through  this  vale  of 
misery  in  holiness  and  righteousness,  that  when  we 
have  served  thee  in  our  generation,  we  may  depart 
this  life  in  peace ;  having  the  testimony  of  a  good 
conscience  ;  in  the  communion  of  thy  holy  church ; 
in  the  confidence  of  a  true  faith ;  in  the  comfort  of 
a  sure  religious  hope ;  in  favor  with  thee  our  God, 
and  in  perfect  charity  with  all  the  world. 

Assist  us  mercifully,  O  Lord,  and  hear  us  in  these 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  195 

A  Prayer  for  a  sick  Child. 

our  supplications,  and  dispose  our  ways  towards 
the  attainment  of  everlasting  salvation.  Among 
all  the  changes  and  sorrows  of  this  mortal  life,  may 
we  ever  be  defended  by  thy  most  gracious  and 
ready  help. 

These  things,  and  whatever  else  thou  seest  ne- 
cessary for  us,  for  our  sick  friend,  [for  this  family,] 
and  for  the  whole  family  of  mankind,  we  humbly 
ask,  in  the  name,  and  through  the  merits  of  our 
Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  a  Sick  Child. 

ALMIGHTY  God  and  most  merciful  Father,  the 
Giver  and  the  Preserver  of  our  lives ;  to  thee  be- 
long the  issues  of  life  and  death ;  to  thee  alone  can 
frail  and  sinful  mortals  fly  for  refuge  in  distress. 
Thou  hast  taught  us  by  thy  Son,  Jesus  Christ,  that 
if  we  ask  in  true  faith  we  shall  receive  ;  that  if  we 
seek,  we  shall  find ;  that  if  we  knock,  the  gates  of 
thy  mercy  shall  be  opened  unto  us.  With  humble 
reverence  we  bow  before  thee,  beseeching  thee  gra- 
ciously to  look  upon  our  afflictions  ;  with  pity  to 
behold  the  sorrows  of  our  hearts ;  mercifully  to  for- 
give our  sins,  and  favorably  to  hear  our  prayers. 
Graciously  hear  us,  we  humbly  beseech  thee :  O 
blessed  Lord,  graciously  hear  our  prayers,  and  grant 
the  petitions  which,  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  we 
humbly  present  before  thee.  Look  with  thy  com- 
passionate favor  upon  this  child  visited  with  sick- 
ness. Visit  him,  O  Lord,  with  thy  salvation.  His 
life  is  in  thy  hand ;  may  it  be  precious  in  thy  sight. 
Thou  hast  but  to  speak  the  word,  and  this  child 
shall  be  well  from  the  same  hour.  Deliver  him,  O 
Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  in  thy  good  appointed  time, 
from  bodily  pain  and  sickness,  and  save  his  soul 


196  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  a  sick  Child. 

for  thy  mercy's  sake.  Behold  with  pity  the  fears 
and  sorrows  of  those  who  acknowledge  their  de- 
pendence, and  rejoice  that  they  are  dependent  upon 
a  righteous,  merciful  and  prayer-hearing  God, 
whose  tender  mercies  are  over  all  thy  works ;  who 
dost  not  willingly  afflict  or  grieve  the  children  of 
men ;  who  intendest  good  in  thy  severest  chastise- 
ments, and  lovest  the  soul  whom  thy  hand  correct- 
eth.  If  it  be  thy  good  pleasure  that  this  child  may 
live,  and  his  days  be  prolonged  on  the  earth,  re- 
lieve him,  we  beseech  thee,  from  bodily  distress : 
bless  the  means  which  are  used  for  restoring  him  to 
health.  All  medicines  act  by  thy  decree,  and  none 
can  fail  if  thou  shalt  bless  them.  Grant  that  this 
child  may  live  to  thee.  Guide  and  preserve  him 
through  all  the  dangers  of  life,  both  of  soul  and 
body.  Make  him  a  comfort  to  his  friends,  a  bless- 
ing to  the  earth,  and  an  instrument  of  thy  glory,  by 
serving  thee  faithfully,  and  doing  good  in  his  gene- 
ration. 

But  if  in  thy .  wisdom  thou  hast  otherwise  ap- 
pointed, and  it  be  thy  purpose  to  remove  him  from 
this  world  of  pain  and  sins  and  sorrows,  receive 
him,  O  God,  we  humbly  beseech  thee,  into  those 
heavenly  habitations  of  life  and  glory,  where  the 
souls  of  those  who  rest  in  Jesus  Christ  enjoy  per- 
petual felicity.  May  his  soul  be  washed  and  sanc- 
tified in  the  Savior's  blood.  Give  now  unto  us  who 
ask ;  let  us  who  seek,  find ;  open  to  us  who  knock, 
that  this  child  may  enjoy  thy  heavenly  benediction, 
and  rest  in  the  arms  of  that  blessed  Savior  who  has 
said,  "Of  such  is  the  kingdom  of  God." 

And  wilt  thou  behold  with  compassion  the  dis- 
tressing anxiety  of  the  afflicted  parents.  Relieve 
them  from  their  fears  and  apprehensions.  Restore, 
we  beseech  thee,  their  beloved  child  to  their  arms  in 
health  ;  and  may  he  long  live  to  their  comfort  and 
to  thy  glory,  a  member  of  Christ,  a  child  of  God, 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  197 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  on  a  Funeral  Occasion. 

and  an  inheritor  of  the  kingdom  of  heaven.  Or 
give  them  grace  to  submit  with  patience  to  thy  su- 
perior wisdom,  sensible  that  the  Lord  gave  what  he 
taketh  away.  Prepare  them  for  every  event  of  thy 
providence.  In  all  their  sorrows  help  them  to  say 
with  thy  servant  of  old,  "  It  is  the  Lord,  let  him  do 
what  seemeth  to  him  good."  Give  them,  O  Lord,  in 
the  abundant  fruition  of  thy  grace,  a  better  portion 
than  sons  or  daughters — an  unfading  inheritance 
among  thy  saints  in  light,  where  the  righteous  shall 
be  forever  happy.  Hear  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech 
thee,  for  the  worthiness  of  thy  Son,  our  Savior, 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  with  a  Family  and  their  Friends  on  a  Fu- 
neral Occasion. 

O  ETERNAL  and  everliving  God,  whose  wise  and 
just  providence  governeth  all  things  in  heaven  and 
on  earth ;  who  hatest  nothing  that  thou  hast  made, 
and  hast  compassion  upon  the  children  of  men ;  we 
lift  our  eyes  to  thee  as  the  Father  of  mercies,  and 
our  only  help  in  time  of  sorrow  and  distress.  With 
great  reverence  and  humility,  and  with  a  deep  sense 
of  our  unworthiness,  we  desire  on  this  occasion  to 
bow  before  thee  in  penitence  and  prayer. 

Most  just  art  thou,  O  Lord,  in  all  thy  dealings 
with  mankind:  affliction  cometh  not  of  the  dust: 
the  sorrows  which  visit  the  hearts  of  men  receive 
commission  all  from  thee.  Sickness  and  pains  and 
death  are  the  dispensations  of  thy  righteous  hand, 
and  they  are  less  than  our  sins  deserve.  Thou  art 
faithful  and  true  in  all  thy  ways  :  equity  and  judg- 
ment are  the  habitation  of  thy  seat.  We  acknow- 
ledge the  justice  of  that  sentence  which  thou  hast 
pronounced  upon  our  fallen  race,  "  Dust  thou  art, 
and  unto  dust  shalt  thou  return."  It  is  of  thy  mer- 
17* 


198  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  on  a  Funeral  Occasion. 

cy,  and  because  thy  compassion  faileth  not,  that  we 
are  not  consumed :  that  we  yet  remain  living 
monuments  of  thy  forbearing  mercy,  and  are  per- 
mitted to  address  thee-in  supplication  and  prayer. 
Graciously,  O  Lord,  look  upon  us,  in  this  season 
of  affliction ;  mercifully  forgive  our  sins ;  with  pity 
behold  the  sorrow  of  our  hearts;  favorably  hear 
our  prayers,  which,  on  this  mournful  occasion,  we 
desire  to  offer  before  thy  gracious  throne. 

Awakened  by  this  painful  visitation  of  thy  pro- 
vidence, which  hath  called  us  [again]  to  the  house 
of  mourning,  we  adore  thy  justice ;  we  would  bow 
with  submission  and  reverential  awe.  Extend,  O 
Lord,  thy  compassionate  mercy  to  each  and  all  of 
us,  who  are  here  present.  Forgive  us  our  sins,  and 
renew  a  right  spirit  within  us.  Spare  us,  O  Lord, 
spare  the  people  whom  thou  hast  redeemed.  Teach 
us  so  to  number  our  days  upon  the  earth,  and  so  to 
apply  our  hearts  unto  true  wisdom,  that  amidst  all 
the  changes  and  sorrows  of  this  world,  pur  hearts 
may  surely  there  be  fixed,  where  true  joys  are  to 
be  found. 

Grant,  O  heavenly  Father,  that  the  occasion,  on 
which  we  are  now  assembled,  may  cause  us  to  re- 
flect upon  our  mortality,  and  truly  to  repent  of  our 
sins.  May  our  mourning  be  after  a  godly  sort; 
may  we  consider  that  death  is  the  lot  of  all  men, 
and  must  soon  be  ours ;  and,  through  thy  grace, 
may  we  so  lay  it  to  heart,  that  we  may  never  be 
afraid,  nor  unprepared  to  die.  While  we  sympa- 
thize in  the  sorrows  of  our  mourning  friends,  and 
weep  with  those  whom  thou  hast  called  to  weep, 
may  our  thoughts  be  raised  to  a  better  hope  in  a 
better  world.  Amidst  these  painful  proofs  thai  the 
wages  of  sin  is  death,  may  we  rejoice  in  the  conso- 
lation, that  the  gift  of  God  is  eternal  life  through 
Jesus  Christ ;  that  this  corruptible  shall  put  on  in- 
corruption,  and  that,  through  the  mighty  power  of 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  199 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  on  a  Funeral  Occasion. 

Him  who  is  the  resurrection  and  the  life,  the  faith- 
ful shall  rise  to  life  immortal. 

We  bless  thee,  O  God,  that  thou  didst  so  love  the 
world  as  to  give  thine  only-begotten  Son,  that  all 
who  believe  in  him  should  not  perish,  but  have 
everlasting  life  :  that  he  took  not  the  nature  of  an- 
gels, but  the  seed  of  Abraham ;  and  lived  and  died 
and  rose  from  the  dead,  that  we  may  live  through 
him.  We  praise  thee  that  life  and  immortality  are 
brought  to  light,  and  that  our  hopes  are  raised  from 
this  our  fallen  state  of  sorrow  and  death,  to  glori- 
ous mansions  of  rest  and  peace.  Raise,  we  beseech 
thee,  our  affections  and  our  desires  from  the  world 
to  thee,  and  our  hearts  from  the  death  of  sin  to  a 
life  of  righteousness.  Dispose  our  thoughts  and  di- 
rect our  ways  towards  the  attainment  of  everlasting 
salvation,  that,  amidst  all  the  cares  and  sorrows  of 
this  mortal  state,  we  may  ever  be  defended  by  thy 
most  gracious  and  ready  help.  Sanctify  to  our  re- 
ligious improvement  this  mournful  dispensation  of 
thy  just  providence,  that  when  we  are  called  to 
leave  this  world,  we  may  die  the  death  of  the  right- 
eous, and  our  last  end  be  like  his. 

In  thy  word  hast  thou  taught  us,  O  heavenly 
Father,  that  thou  dost  not  willingly  afflict  or  grieve 
the  children  of  men ;  look  with  pity,  we  beseech 
thee,  upon  the  sorrows  of  thy  servants,  who  on  this 
occasion  are  called  to  mourn.  [We  commend  to 
thy  compassionate  goodness  the  sorrows  of  the  pa- 
rents for  their  child  deceased.]  In  thy  wisdom  hast 
thou  seen  fit  to  visit  them  with  sorrow,  and  to  bring 
this  great  distress  upon  them.  Remember  them,  O 
Lord,  in  mercy,  and  sanctify  thy  fatherly  correction 
to  them.  Endue  their  soul  with  patience  under 
their  affliction,  and  with  resignation  to  thy  blessed 
will.  Comfort  them  with  a  sense  of  thy  goodness, 
and  give  peace  to  their  troubled  mind. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  that  they  [the  brothers  and  sisters 


200  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  on  a  Funeral  Occasion. 

of  the  deceased]  may  be  blest  with  the  comforting 
support  of  thy  grace.  While  following  the  remains 
of -so  dear  a  connection  from  the  house  of  mourning 
to  the  house  of  death,  may  thy  Spirit  and  the  com- 
fort of  thy  peace  be  with  them.  May  they  not  mourn 
without  hope :  viewing  the  grave  as  the  place 
where  the  Lord  Jesus  lay,  may  their  desires  be 
raised  to  the  high  and  holy  place  where  he  in  glory 
forever  reigns. 

[Extend,  we  beseech  thee,  thy  compassionate 
goodness  to  the  surviving  companion  of  the  de- 
ceased. In  this  distressing  sorrow  may  thy  heaven- 
ly grace  be  with  him,  and  so  sanctify,  O  righteous 
God,  this  severe  affliction,  that  what  seems  so  great 
a  loss  may  conduce  to  his  eternal  gain.  With 
pious  submission  to  thy  unerring  wisdom,  may  he 
resign  this  dear  friend  to  thy  superior  claim ;  may 
he  know  and  feel  that  the  Lord  gave  what  he  taketh 
away  ;  that  thou  art  just  and  good  in  all  thy  ways, 
and  that  thy  mercy  endureth  for  ever.] 

And  for  all  whom  this  event  of  thy  providence 
has  called  to  mourn,  whether  present  or  absent,  be 
pleased,  O  God,  to  hear  our  supplications.  Prepare 
them  to  make,  and  assist  them  in  making  all  suita- 
ble improvement  from  this  affliction.  Give  them 
grace  to  bear  this  bereavement  with  such  humility 
and  resignation  as  becometh  the  gospel  of  Jesus 
Christ.  May  they  neither  despise  thy  chastening, 
nor  faint  under  thy  rebukes ;  but  say,  with  thy  ser- 
vant of  old,  "  It  is  the  Lord,  let  him  do  what  seemeth 
to  him  good."  May  their  hopes  and  desires  be  so 
raised  to  thee  and  to  heavenly  things,  that,  when 
they  depart  this  life,  they  may  rest  in  God,  through 
Jesus  Christ. 

Assist  us,  O  Lord,  in  what  remains  of  the  mourn- 
ful duties  to  which  we  are  now  called.  May  the 
comforts  of  thy  truth,  and  power  of  thy  grace,  be 
with  thy  people,  while,  with  decent  solemnity,  they 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  201 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  a  Funeral. 

commit  these  earthly  remains  to  the  ground  ;  look- 
ing, with  the  eye  of  faith,  to  the  resurrection  of  the 
dead,  and  the  life  of  the  world  to  come. 

And  grant,  O  merciful  God,  that  the  mournful 
solemnities  of  this  day  may  awaken  us  to  right- 
eousness. Let  us  not  be  forgetful  that  our  days  are 
swiftly  passing  away,  and  that  every  hour  shortens 
our  scanty  span.  Give  us  grace  to  live  as  those 
who  are  born  to  die,  and  whose  spirits  must  soon 
depart  to  the  eternal  world.  Grant  that  the  short- 
ness of  life  may  continually  remind  us  of  its  impor- 
tance, and  the  uncertainty  of  its  continuance  make 
us  ever  ready  and  prepared  for  its  end. 

And  we  bless  thy  holy  name  for  all  thy  servants 
who  have  departed  this  life  in  thy  faith  and  fear,  be- 
seeching thee  to  give  us  grace  so  to  follow  their  good 
examples,  that  with  them  we  may  be  partakers  of 
thy  heavenly  kingdom.  Hear  us,  O  Lord,  we  be- 
seech thee,  for  the  sake  of  thy  Son,  our  Savior, 
Jesus  Christ. 

And  may  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  be 
with  us  all,  now  and  evermore.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  a  Funeral,  when  there  is  not  to  be  a  Ser- 
vice at  the  Grave. 

O  God  and  merciful  Father,  who  despisest  not 
the  sighing  of  a  contrite  heart,  nor  the  humble  de- 
sires of  those  who  are  visited  with  sorrow,  gra- 
ciously assist  our  prayers  which  we  make  before  thee 
in  our  present  afflictions.  In  mercy  behold  our  sor- 
rows and  hear  our  supplications.  In  the  midst  of 
life  we  are  in  death  :  to  whom  can  we  flee  for  suc- 
cor but  to  thee,  O  God,  who  for  our  sins  art  justly 
displeased  !  To  whom  can  sinners  fly  for  refuge 
but  to  thee,  to  whom  belong  mercies  and  forgive- 
ness :  to  thee,  who  art  always  more  ready  to  hear 


202  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  that  may  he  used  at  a  Funeral. 

than  we  to  pray,  and  art  wont  to  give  more  than 
we  desire  or  deserve.  Favorably  and  in  mercy 
hear  our  supplications;  with  pity  behold  the  in- 
firmity of  our  nature  and  the  sorrow  of  our  hearts, 
and  pardon  our  manifold  offences. 

Man  that  is  born  of  a  woman  hath  but  a  short 
time  to  live,  and  is  full  of  misery  :  he  cometh  up 
and  is  cut  down  like  a  flower ;  he  fleeth,  as  it 
were  a  shadow,  and  never  continueth  in  one  stay. 
Our  days  at  the  longest  are  short,  and  at  the  strong- 
est are  frail ;  and  when  we  feel  the  most  secure,  we 
know  not  what  a  day  or  an  hour  may  bring  forth. 
We  consume  away  in  thy  displeasure,  and  are 
afraid  at  thy  wrathful  indignation.  When  thou  art 
angry,  all  our  days  are  gone  ;  we  bring  our  years  to 
an  end  as  it  were  a  tale  that  is  told.  Yet,  O  Lord 
most  holy,  O  God  most  mighty,  O  merciful  Savior, 
deliver  us  not  into  the  bitter  pains  of  eternal  death. 
Thou  knowest,  Lord,  the  secrets  of  our  hearts :  shut 
not  thy  merciful  ears  to  our  prayers,  but  spare  us, 
Lord  most  holy :  thou  worthy  Judge  eternal,  suffer 
us  not,  at  our  last  hour,  to  fall  from  thee.  Support 
us,  O  Lord,  through  life  by  thy  free  Spirit,  and  direct 
our  ways  towards  the  attainment  of  everlasting 
salvation,  that,  among  all  the  changes  and  trials  of 
this  mortal  state,  we  may  ever  be  defended  by  thy 
most  gracious  and  ready  help,  and  finally  be  re- 
ceived into  thy  heavenly  mansions  of  glory  and 
peace,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 

It  hath  pleased  thee,  O  righteous  God,  to  take  out 
of  this  world  the  soul  of  our  deceased  friend ;  help 
us,  we  beseech  thee,  with*  due  submission  to  thy  un- 
erring providence,  decently  to  commit  his  body  to 
the  ground,  earth  to  earth,  ashes  to  ashes,  dust 
to  dust:  and  help  us  to  look  forward  in  faith 
and  hope  to  the  general  resurrection  in  the  last 
day,  and  the  life  of  the  world  to  come,  through 
our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  at  whose  second  coming  in 


&RIS  WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  203 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  a  Funeral. 

glorious  majesty  to  judge  the  world,  the  earth  and 
the  sea  shall  give  up  their  dead,  and  the  corruptible 
bodies  of  those  who  sleep  in  him  shall  be  changed 
and  made  like  unto  his  own  glorious  body,  accord- 
ing to  the  mighty  working,  whereby  he  is  able  to 
subdue  all  things  unto  himself.  Thou  hast  taught 
us,  by  a  voice  from  heaven,  that  blessed  are  the 
dead  who  die  in  the  Lord.  Grant  us  grace  so  to 
live,  that  when  it  shall  please  thee  to  call  us  hence, 
we  may  die  the  death  of  the  righteous,  and  our  last 
end  be  like  his.  Thou  has  taught  us,  O  heavenly 
Father,  in  thy  holy  word,  that  thou  dost  not  wil- 
lingly afflict  or  grieve  the  children  of  men ;  look 
with  pity,  we  beseech  thee.  upon  the  sorrows  of 
thy  servants,  who,  by  this  event  of  thy  providence, 
are  called  to  mourn.  In  thy  wisdom  thou  hast  seen 
fit  to  visit  them  with  sorrow,  [to  take  from  them,  &c. 
Here  the  particular  case  of  the  mourners  may  be 
mentioned.]  Remember  them,  O  Lord,  in  mercy. 
Sanctify  thy  fatherly  correction  to  them.  Endue  their 
souls  with  patience  under  their  affliction,  and  with 
resignation  to  thy  blessed  will.  Comfort  them  with 
a  sense  of  thy  goodness ;  lift  up  thy  countenance 
upon  them  and  give  them  peace,  through  Jesus 
Christ  our  Lord. 

Raise  us,  O  merciful  God,  from  the  death  of  sin 
to  a  life  of  righteousness,  that  when  we  shall  de- 
part this  life,  we  may  rest  in  him  who  is  the  resur- 
rection and  the  life ;  and  in  the  last  and  great  day 
of  the  Lord,  may  we  be  found  acceptable  in  thy 
sight,  and  receive  that  blessing  which  he  shall  then 
pronounce  to  all  who  love  and  fear  thee ;  saying, 
Come,  ye  blessed  children  of  my  Father,  receive 
the  kingdom  prepared  for  you  from  the  beginning 
of  the  world.  Hear  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee, 
for  the  sake  of  the  same,  thy  Son,  our  Savior; 
and  hear  the  prayer  which  he  hath  taught  us  to  use  : 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven,  hallowed  be  thy 


204  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  a  Family  in  Affliction. 

name.  Thy  kingdom  come ;  thy  will  be  done  on 
earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses,  as  we 
forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us.  And  lead 
us  not  into  temptation;  but  deliver  us  from  evil. 
For  thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the 
glory,  forever  and  ever.  Amen. 

May  the  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  and  the 
love  of  God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy  Ghost, 
be  with  us  all  evermore.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  a  Family  in  Affliction. 

O  MOST  mighty  God  and  merciful  Father,  who 
hast  compassion  upon  all  men,  and  hatest  nothing 
that  thou  hast  made ;  who  despisest  not  the  humble 
desires  of  those  who  fly  to  thee  for  succor,  behold 
our  afflictions,  and  mercifully  hear  our  prayers. 
Encompassed  as  we  are  by  sorrows,  pains  and 
death,  to  whom  can  we  look  for  succor  but  unto 
thee,  O  God,  whom  we  are  daily  offending  by  our 
manifold  sins,  and  who  art  of  purer  eyes  than  to 
behold  evil.  Create  and  make  in  us  new  and  con- 
trite hearts,  that  we  may  truly  repent  of  our  sins, 
and  obtain  of  thee,  the  God  of  all  mercy,  perfect 
remission  and  forgiveness. 

Righteous  art  thou,  O  God,  and  just  in  all  thy 
dealings  ;  equity  and  judgment  are  the  habitation 
of  thy  seat ;  goodness  and  mercy  are  in  all  thy 
dealings  with  the  children  of  men.  We  acknow- 
ledge, O  Lord,  that  our  sufferings  are  less  than  our 
sins  deserve ;  that  it  is  of  thy  mercy,  and  because 
thy  compassion  faileth  not,  that  we  are  not  con- 
sumed. But  thou  knowest,  O  Lord,  the  weakness 
of  our  nature,  and  how  little  it  is  that  we  can  bear. 
That  our  strength  fail  not,  and  for  thy  mercy's  sake, 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  205 

A  Prayer  for  a  Family  in  Affliction. 

behold  us  with  compassion,  and  turn  from  us  those 
evils  which  we  too  justly  have  deserved. 

We  are  unworthy,  through  our  manifold  sins,  to 
offer  unto  thee  any  sacrifice  ;  yet,  we  beseech  thee 
to  hear  these  our  supplications  and  prayers,  not 
weighing  our  merits,  but  pardoning  our  offences. 
May  we  be  thankful  that  there  is  a  merciful  God, 
to  whom  the  afflicted  and  the  weak  may  look  for 
comfort  and  support.  Confiding  in  thy  mercy  and 
thy  gracious  promises,  we  implore,  O  heavenly 
Father,  thy  compassionate  favor  upon  this  family, 
who  desire,  in  humble  supplication,  to  look  to  thee 
for  aid.  To  thee,  O  Lord,  it  seemeth  fitting  to  visit 
them  with  sorrow  and  distress.  [The  particular 
affliction  may  here  be  mentioned.}  Thou  knowest, 
O  Lord,  their  fears,  tJieir  sorrows,  and  what  they 
need.  Wilt  thou  relieve,  comfort  and  support 
them,  according  to  the  necessities  of  their  case. 
Forsake  them  not,  we  humbly  beseech  thee ;  for- 
sake not  the  souls  whom  thy  hand  correcteth. 
Thou  art  able  to  turn  mourning  into  gladness,  and 
to  give  songs  of  joy  for  the  heaviness  of  sorrow. 
O  remember  them  in  mercy  ;  relieve  them  from  dis- 
tress, and  sanctify  their  fears  and  their  sorrows  to 
the  benefit  of  their  souls.  Prepare  them,  O  Lord, 
for  every  event  of  thy  providence  :  turn  from  them 
the  evils  of  life,  and  sustain  them  under  those  trials 
of  their  faith  and  patience,  to  which  it  may  seem 
to  thee  good  to  call  them.  In  all  the  changes  and 
disappointments  of  life,  help  them,  with  becoming 
resignation,  and  a  deep  sense  of  thy  righteous  deal- 
ings, to  submit  to  thy  will,  and  to  say  in  their 
hearts,  Thy  will  be  done.  Help  them,  O  Lord,  to 
see  love  in  thy  dealings,  and  to  know  that  temporal 
afflictions,  through  thy  blessing,  tend  to  spiritual 
good.  Help  theni  to  say  with  thy  servant  Job, 
Shall  we  receive  good  at  the  hand  of  God,  and 
shall  we  not  receive  evil  1  O  may  this  evil,  this 
18 


206  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  a  Prisoner,  or  Prisoners,  under  Sentence  of  Death. 

weight  of  sorrow,  which  rests  so  hard  upon  them, 
through  thy  blessing,  be  turned  to  good ;  and  may 
they  know  and  feel  from  happy  experience,  that  all 
things  work  together  for  good,  to  those  who  love 
and  fear  thee. 

Do  thou,  O  God,  who  art  the  fountain  of  all  wis- 
dom, mercy  and  grace,  who  knowest  our  necessities 
before  we  ask,  and  our  ignorance  in  asking,  have 
compassion  upon  our  infirmities ;  pardon  us  where- 
in we  ask  amiss ;  grant  the  petitions  which  we 
have  now  offered;  and  all  those  good  things  which, 
through  blindness  or  neglect,  we  do  not  ask  for, 
vouchsafe  to  give  us,  for  the  worthiness  of  thy  Son, 
our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  a  Prisoner,  or  Prisoners,  under  Sentence  of  Death. 

O  FATHER  of  mercies,  and  God  of  all  comfort,  the 
only  hope  of  all  the  ends  of  the  earth,  we,  thy  sin- 
ful, unworthy  creatures,  desire,  with  great  and 
reverential  awe,  to  bow  before  thee,  and  to  look 
unto  thee  for  succor,  in  behalf  of  this  thy  servant, 
under  sentence  of  condemnation.  According  to 
human  appearance,  his  days  on  earth  are  num- 
bered, and  the  time  of  his  departure  is  at  hand. 
Remember  not,  Lord,  his  offences,  but  thy  mercy  to 
mankind  in  Jesus  Christ.  In  the  midst  of  life  we 
are  in  death ;  to  whom  can  sinful,  dying  mortals 
look  for  aid,  but  unto  thee,  O  God,  who,  for  our  sins, 
art  justly  displeased.  Yet,  O  Lord  God,  most  holy, 
thou  worthy  Judge  eternal,  deliver  him  not  into  the 
bitter  pains  of  eternal  death.  O  holy  and  merciful 
Savior,  accept  his  tears  and  supplications.  Grant 
him  sincere  and  true  repentance  for  all  the  sins  and 
transgressions  of  his  life  past,  that  he  may  obtain 
of  thee,  the  God  of  all  mercy,  perfect  remission 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  207 

A  Prayer  for  a  Prisoner,  or  Prisoners,  under  Sentence  of  Death. 

and  forgiveness,  and  his  pardon  be  sealed  in  hea- 
ven, before  he  go  hence,  and  be  no  more  seen.  Do 
thou,  who  of  thine  infinite  goodness  didst  accept 
the  penitential  prayer  of  a  sinner  on  the  cross,  ex- 
tend thy  mercy  to  this  thy  servant;  accept  him,  O 
thou  Savior  of  men,  for  thy  mercy's  sake,  and 
wash  away  his  guilt  by  thy  most  precious  blood. 
Support  him,  O  Lord,  in  this  momentous  trial,  by 
the  comforts  of  thy  Holy  Spirit.  May  he  look,  with 
a  true  faith  and  sure  confidence,  to  Him  who,  while 
we  were  yet  sinners,  died  for  us.  Grant  him 
such  a  view  of  thy  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ,  that  he 
may  not  fear  the  approach  of  death  ;  but,  looking 
beyond  the  grave,  to  the  high  and  holy  place  where 
the  Savior  reigns,  may  he  rejoice  in  the  hope  of 
eternal  life.  May  he  depart  this  life  in  a  religious 
and  holy  hope,  in  favor  with  thee^our  God,  and 
in  perfect  charity  with  all  mankind. 

Thou  knowest,  Lord,  the  secrets  of  his  heart : 
shut  not  thy  merciful  ears  to  our  prayers  on  his 
behalf.  Spare  him,  O  Lord  God  most  holy,  and 
help  him  in  his  last  hour  to  trust  in  thee.  To  thee, 
O  heavenly  Father,  with  whom  do  live  the  spirits 
of  those  who  depart  this  life  in  thy  faith  and  fear, 
we  humbly  commend  the  soul  of  this  our  brother,  as 
into  the  hands  of  a  faithful  Creator  and  merciful 
Savior,  praying  that  it  may  be  washed  in  the 
blood  of  that  Lamb  of  God  which  taketh  away  the 
sins  of  the  world. 

And  grant,  O  Lord,  that  the  ministrations  of  jus- 
tice may  awaken  men  to  righteousness,  and  be 
instrumental,  through  thy  blessing,  in  turning  the 
hearts  of  the  disobedient  to  the  wisdom  of  the  just. 
May  all  remember  that  their  precious  hours  are 
swiftly  wasting ;  and  that  every  passing  moment 
shortens  our  scanty  span.  Help  us,  O  Lord,  to  be 
prepared  to  die  the  death  of  the  righteous,  and  that 
our  last  end  may  be  like  his. 


208  ORISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  Courts  of  Justice. 

These  our  supplications,  O  heavenly  Father,  we 
humbly  offer  in  the  name  and  through  the  merits  of 
Jesus  Christ,  who  taught  us,  when  we  pray,  to  say, 
Our  Father,  who  art,  &c.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  Courts  of  Justice. 

ADORABLE  and  everlasting  God,  the  high  and 
mighty  Ruler  of  the  universe,  who  dost  from  thy 
throne  behold  all  the  dwellers  upon  the  earth,  and 
who  canst  order  the  wills  and  control  the  affections 
of  sinful  men,  with  reverence  and  humility  we 
would  present  ourselves  before  thee,  sensible  that 
thou  art  in  heaven,  and  we  upon  the  earth.  Right- 
eousness and  judgment  are  the  habitation  of  thy 
throne.  To  thee  all  hearts  are  open,  and  all  desires 
known.  Thou  knowest,  O  God,  our  need  before 
we  ask  ;  our  hearts  are  in  thy  hands,  and  our  sins 
are  not  hid  from  thee.  Wilt  thou  pardon  our  sins, 
sanctify  our  hearts,  and  hear  our  prayers.  Behold, 
we  beseech  thee,  with  thy  favor  and  blessing,  the 
people  and  government  of  these  United  States  ;  and 
of  this  state,  especially,  in  which  we  live.  Bless 
all  those  who  are  in  authority;  endue  them  with 
wisdom,  and  so  guide  their  counsels,  and  strengthen 
their  hands,  that  the  hearts  of  the  disobedient  may 
be  turned  to  the  wisdom  of  the  just ;  that  peace 
and  happiness,  truth  and  justice,  holiness  and  piety, 
may  be  established  in  our  land ;  and  that  thy  peo- 
ple, secured  by  the  protection  of  equal  laws  and 
the  administration  of  impartial  justice,  may  serve 
thee  in  quietness  and  godliness  of  living. 

More  particularly  do  we  offer  our  prayers  to  thee, 
the  only  wise  God,  in  behalf  of  this  court,  by  the 
permission  of  thy  good  providence  here  assembled, 
for  the  administration  of  justice  to  thy  people. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  209 

A  Prayer  for  Courts  of  Justice. 

Grant  to  the  judges  and  other  officers  thy  heavenly 
benediction.  Give  them  the  spirit  of  wisdom  and 
understanding ;  of  counsel  and  of  right  knowledge ; 
and  so  enlighten  their  minds  with  the  just  princi- 
ples of  law  and  of  equity,  that  they  may  truly  and 
impartially  administer  justice,  restrain  wickedness, 
suppress  vice,  promote  righteousness  and  maintain 
peace.  May  the  sword  which  they  are  appointed 
to  bear  be  such  a  terror  to  evil  works,  that  it  may 
not  be  borne  in  vain.  From  the  equity  of  their 
judgments  may  men  learn  righteousness ;  honor- 
ing them  as  the  ministers  of  God  for  good,  and  sub- 
mitting to  every  ordinance  of  man,  for  the  Lord's 
sake.  > 

And  grant,  O  Lord,  that  they  who  shall  come 
before  this  court  to  obtain  justice  and  maintain  their 
rights,  according  to  the  wise  and  equitable  laws  of 
our  country,  may  be  in  their  hearts  disposed  to  do 
justly,  to  love  mercy,  and  to  render  that  measure  to 
others  which  they  seek  for  themselves.  Preserve  us 
from  all  envy,  hatred  and  malice,  and  from  all  un- 
charitableness.  May  we  do  to  others  as  we  would 
have  them  do  to  us,  and  endeavor  to  owe  no  man 
any  thing,  but  to  love  one  another ;  and  may  we 
ever  remain  a  happy  and  united  people,  having 
justice  for  our  guide,  and  the  Lord  for  our  God. 

And,  O  thou  righteous  Judge  of  all  the  earth,  may 
the  solemnities  of  an  earthly  tribunal  awaken  in 
our  minds  a  lively  apprehension,  and  impress  upon 
our  hearts  a  constant  remembrance  of  that  day  of 
the  Lord,  when  we  must  all  appear  before  the  bar 
of  thy  judgment  seat,  and  receive  the  doom  which 
is  to  fix  our  eternal  state.  May  we  consider  well 
and  wisely,  and  in  a  time  accepted,  what  testimony 
our  passing  hours  may  give,  at  that  time,  when  all 
hearts  shall  be  laid  open,  and  no  secrets  can  be  hid. 
Give  us  grace  to  cast  away  the  works  of  darkness 
and  to  walk  in  the  light  of  truth  and  according  to 
18  N 


210  GBISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  a  Legislative  Assembly. 

thy  righteous  laws,  that  we  may  receive  the  appro- 
bation of  our  final  Judge,  and  inherit  the  kingdom 
prepared  for  the  righteous  from  the  beginning  of 
the  world. 

Extend,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  the  blessings 
of  civil  freedom  and  the  administration  of  impar- 
tial justice  to  all  the  people  of  the  earth.  Give 
peace  and  harmony  to  contending  nations,  and  so 
rule  their  hearts  and  enlighten  their  minds,  that 
they  may  live  in  unity  and  godly  love.  Give  thy 
blessing  to  the  preaching  of  the  gospel,  till  the  Re- 
deemer's kingdom  shall  be  spread  to  the  utmost 
bounds  of  the  habitable  globe,  and  all  the  ends 
of  the  world  shall  see  the  salvation  of  our  God. 

These  things,  O  heavenly  Father,  and  whatever 
of  good  thou  seest  fitting  for  us,  for  this  court  of  jus- 
tice, for  our  state  and  country,  and  for  all  mankind, 
we  humbly  ask  in  the  name,  and  through  the 
merits  of  our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ. 

And  may  the  Lord  bless  and  keep  us,  and  give 
us  peace,  now  and  evermore.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  for  a  Legislative  Assembly. 

O  GOD,  the  King  immortal,  invisible,  who  art 
exalted  above  all  thrones  and  dominions,  King  of 
kings  and  Lord  of  lords  ;  whose  wise  and  just  pro- 
vidence ordereth  all  things  in  heaven  and  on  earth ; 
with  all  due  reverence  and  adoration,  we  look  unto 
thee,  as  the  author  of  our  being,  and  the  giver  of  all 
good.  Without  thee,  nothing  is  stable,  nothing  holy, 
nothing  secure :  except  the  Lord  keep  the  city,  the 
watchman  waketh  in  vain.  Without  thy  blessing, 
it  is  but  labor  lost  that  we  rise  early,  and  are  care- 
ful and  troubled  about  many  things.  We  look  un- 
to thee,  as  the  only  hope  of  all  the  ends  of  the  earth. 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  211 

A  Prayer  for  a  Legislative  Assembly. 

We  adore  thee  as  the  God  in  whom  our  fathers 
trusted  and  were  delivered.  We  have  heard  with 
our  ears  what  thou  didst  in  their  days,  and  in  times 
of  old.  They  got  not  this  land  in  possession  by 
their  own  sword,  neither  did  their  own  arm  save 
them ;  but  thy  hand  and  thy  arm  achieved  for  them 
the  victory.  We  desire,  O  God,  to  put  our  trust  in 
thee ;  and  humbly  beseech  thee  to  behold  us  with  thy 
favor  and  blessing,  to  pardon  our  sins,  sanctify  our 
hearts  and  hear  our  prayers.  We  beseech  thee,  O 
God,  to  bestow  thy  blessing  upon  our  country,  and 
upon  all  the  people  of  these  United  States.  May 
thy  paternal  and  holy  protecting  providence  be  over 
them  for  good  :  may  they  ever  be  thy  people,  and 
the  Lord  be  their  God  :  preserve  and  keep  them  by 
thy  perpetual  mercy.  Behold,  we  beseech  thee, 
with  thy  favor  and  blessing,  the  'president  of  the 
United  States,  the  governor  and  council  of  this  state 
in  which  we  live,  and  all  others  who  are  lawfully 
set  in  authority  over  us;  and  so  replenish  them 
with  thy  heavenly  wisdom,  that  they  may  always 
incline  to  thy  will,  and  walk  in  thy  ways ;  grant 
that  they  may  rule  with  uprightness,  execute  jus- 
tice and  maintain  truth.  And  may  all  the  people 
respect  and  obey  the  civil  magistrates,  as  ministers 
of  God,  appointed  for  the  public  good.  Preserve 
them,  we  beseech  thee,  from  selfishness  and  party 
spirit ;  may  they  be  influenced  by  benevolence  and 
the  love  of  their  country ;  and,  according  to  the 
wisdom  given  them,  promote  its  prosperity  and 
peace. 

And  we  humbly  beseech  thee,  O  gracious  God, 
more  especially,  to  behold  with  thy  favor  and 
blessing  the  General  Court  and  Legislature  of  this 
state,  now  assembled  before  thee.  Give  them  wis- 
dom to  know  and  to  ordain  whatever  shall  be  best 
for  the  general  good  of  all  thy  people.  Be  pleased, 
O  God,  we  beseech  thee,  to  direct  and  prosper  all 


212  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  in  a  Town  or  Freemen's  Meeting. 

their  deliberations  and  measures  to  the  advance- 
ment of  thy  glory,  the  promotion  of  pure  and  un- 
defiled  religion,  and  to  the  safety,  honor  and  welfare 
of  thy  people.  Grant  that  all  things  may  be  so 
ordered  and  settled,  by  their  endeavors,  upon  the 
best  and  surest  foundations,  that  peace  and  happi- 
ness, truth  and  justice,  religion  and  piety  may  be 
established  among  us  for  all  generations ;  and  that 
the  people  of  this  our  country,  being  enlightened  by 
the  knowledge  of  thy  word,  and  secure,  through 
the  protection  of  wise  and  equal  laws,  and  the  ad- 
ministration of  impartial  justice,  may  serve  thee 
without  fear,  in  holiness  and  righteousness,  all  the 
days  of  their  life. 

And  grant,  O  Lord,  that  the  whole  course  of  this 
life  may  be  so  peaceably  ordered  by  thy  governance, 
that  thy  people  may  joyfully  serve  thee  in  all  godly 
quietness;  that  they  may  walk  in  the  ways  of 
truth  and  peace,  and  at  last  be  numbered  with  thy 
saints  in  glory  everlasting,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.  And  to  thee,  the  only  wise  God,  our  Savior, 
be  glory  and  majesty,  dominion  and  power,  both 
now  and  ever.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  in  a  Town  or  Freemen's  Meeting. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  the  Creator  and 
Preserver  of  all  mankind,  who  dost,  from  thy  throne, 
behold  all  the  dwellers  upon  the  earth,  and  hast  the 
hearts  and  the  wants  of  all  thy  creatures  before 
thee,  we  implore  thy  favor  and  blessing  upon  thy 
people  here  assembled.  We  adore  thee  for  thy  infi- 
nite perfections;  we  praise  thy  holy  name  for  all 
thy  dispensations  of  goodness  and  mercy  to  us  and 
to  all  mankind.  Our  fathers  put  their  trust  in  thee 
and  were  not  forsaken.  May  the  remembrance  of 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  213 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  in  a  Town  or  Freemen's  Meeting. 

mercies,  which  have  ever  been  of  old,  inspire  our 
hearts  with  gratitude  and  praise  to  thee,  who  hast 
graciously  blest  the  people  of  this  our  country  with 
prosperity  and  increase,  and  given  us  a  great  name 
among  the  nations  of  the  earth.     May  a  sense  of 
thy  goodness  ever  engage  us  in  thy  faith  and  fear. 
May  we  so  love  that  which  thou  commandest,  and 
desire  the  things  which  thou    dost  promise,  that 
among  all  the  manifold  changes  and  temptations  of 
this  mortal  life,  our  hearts  may  surely  there  be  fix- 
ed, where  true  joys  are  to  be  found.     Without  thee, 
nothing  is  strong,  nothing  holy;  increase  and  mul- 
tiply upon  us  thy  mercy,  and  be  our  ruler  and 
guide.     Vouchsafe    to   direct,  sanctify  and  govern, 
both  our  hearts  and  bodies  in  the  ways  of  thy  laws, 
and  in  the  works   of  thy  commandments.      Pour 
down  the  abundance  of  thy  blessings  upon  this  our 
favored  country.     Give  wisdom  and  strength  and 
union  to  our  rulers  and  magistrates.     Bless  the  peo- 
ple and  the  government  of  the  United  States  j  and 
of  this  state,  particularly,  in  which  we  live.     May 
our  legislature  and  courts  of  justice,  and  all  who 
are  appointed  to  give  laws  and  execute  them,  be 
endued  with  wisdom,  and  equity,  and  with  the  love 
of  their  country.     Assist  them  in  all  the  various 
administrations  of  justice  and  right  which  apper- 
tain to  the  offices  respectively  committed  to  their 
trust.     We  beseech  thee  to  bless  all  who  are   in 
authority  over  us,    and  so  rule   their  hearts  and 
strengthen  their  hands,  that  truth  and  happiness 
and  peace  may  be  established  in  all  our  borders ; 
that  righteousness  and  prosperity  may  increase,  and 
that  all  thy  people  may  serve  thee  in  virtue  and  god- 
liness of  living.      Make  us  duly  thankful  for  the 
inestimable  blessing  of  civil  liberty,  good  govern- 
ment and  equitable  laws ;  and  for  the  security  of 
our  religious  rights  and  privileges.     May  we  so  use 
as  never  to  abuse,  nor  forget  from  whom  we  receive 


214  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  suitable  to  be  used  in  a  Town  or  Freemen's  Meeting. 

them.  We  pray  that  thy  watchful  eye  and  holy 
protecting  providence  may  be  over  us  for  good ; 
guide  us  continually  by  thy  unerring  counsel :  pros- 
per us  in  all  our  lawful  pursuits ;  and  preserve  us 
from  desolating  judgments  and  all  calamitous  events. 

More  particularly  do  we  look  unto  thee,  the  only 
wise  God,  for  thy  favor  and  blessing  upon  the 
people  of  this  town,  and  the  important  occasion  on 
which  we  are  here  assembled.  May  we  justly  view 
and  duly  appreciate  the  blessing  of  our  enfran- 
chisement: the  high  privilege  of  choosing  those 
who  shall  be  our  rulers,  and  of  making  appoint- 
ments to  offices  of  trust.  May  thy  blessing,  O 
Lord,  be  with  us ;  the  blessing  of  wisdom,  har- 
mony and  love.  Preserve  us  from  the  evils  of  par- 
ty feeling,  selfishness  and  contention.  May  it  be 
the  sincere  desire  of  each  and  every  one  to  pro- 
mote the  public  welfare.  In  this  important  exer- 
cise of  the  rights  of  freemen,  may  they  be  directed 
to  the  choice  of  such  persons  as  are  best  qualified 
for  the  offices  to  which  they  shall  be  elected.  And 
give  grace,  we  beseech  thee,  and  wisdom  to  all  those 
who  are  or  shall  be  thus  called  to  serve  their  town 
or  state  or  country  ;  may  they  willingly  and  faith- 
fully perform  the  important  duties  of  their  office, 
sincerely  endeavoring  to  promote  equity,  union  and 
peace. 

And  may  we  all  be  disposed  to  harmony  and  love, 
and  to  give  that  measure  to  others  which  we  expect 
from  them.  May  the  people  of  this  town  be  conti- 
nually united,  as  a  happy  society,  with  interests 
and  feelings  in  common.  May  they  who  are  strong 
support  the  weak,  and  every  member  of  the  commu- 
nity, according  to  his  means  and  station,  bear  his  just 
part  of  the  public  burthens,  and  contribute  his  due 
proportion  to  the  general  good.  And  grant,  O  Lord, 
that  our  land  may  still  enjoy,  and  better  appreciate 
the  light  of  thy  truth  and  the  blessings  of  thy  boun- 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  215 

A  Prayer  suitable  for  a  Temperance  Meeting. 

tiful  hand.  Remove  from  us  all  spiritual  ignorance, 
and  preserve  us  from  an  evil  heart  of  unbelief,  in 
departing  from  thee,  the  living  God.  May  we  ever 
remain  a  happy,  united  people,  having  truth  for  our 
guide,  and  the  Lord  for  our  God.  Hear  us,  O  Lord, 
and  bless  us  for  the  worthiness  of  thy  Son,  our 
Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  And  may  his  grace,  and  thy 
love,  and  the  communion  of  the  Holy  Spirit,  be 
with  us  all,  evermore.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  suitable  for  a  Temperance  Meeting. 

O  MERCIFUL  God,  who  art  the  Giver  of  all  good, 
and  orderest  all  things  in  heaven  and  on  earth ;  who 
hast  compassion  upon  mankind,  and  hast  graciously 
promised  to  hear  the  prayer  of  those  who  ask  in  the 
name  of  Jesus  Christ,  mercifully  forgive  our  sins, 
and  accept  our  humble  supplications.  Shouldst 
thou  be  extreme  to  mark  iniquities,  no  man  living 
could  be  justified.  For  the  glory  of  thy  name,  turn 
from  us  all  those  evils  which  we  too  justly,  have 
deserved.  Increase  and  multiply  upon  us  thy  mercy. 
Let  thy  ears  be  open  to  our  petitions ;  prepare  our 
hearts  to  come  worthily  before  thee,  not  in  our  own 
name,  nor  trusting  in  our  own  righteousness,  but  in 
the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  and  trusting  in  thy  mercy 
through  his  merits.  Help  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech 
thee,  to  fulfil  the  duties  of  our  respective  stations  in 
life,  and  to  go  forward  in  our  Christian  course. 
Open  our  eyes,  that  we  may  see  the  excellency  of 
thy  law ;  give  us  understanding  that  we  may  know 
thy  testimonies,  and  write  the  truths  of  thy  gospel 
on  our  hearts.  Direct  and  bless  us  in  all  our 
endeavors  to  know  and  to  do  thy  will.  Thou 
knowest,  O  God,  that  we  are  set  in  the  midst  of 


216  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  suitable  for  a  Temperance  Meeting. 

manifold  and  great  dangers,  and  that  our  nature  is 
weak ;  grant  to  us  such  strength  and  protection  as 
may  support  us  in  all  perils,  and  carry  us  safely 
through  all  temptation.  Keep  us  both  outwardly 
in  our  bodies,  and  inwardly  in  our  souls,  that  we 
may  be  defended  from  all  adversities  which  may 
happen  to  the  body,  and  from  all  evil  thoughts 
which  may  assault  or  hurt  the  soul.  Purify  our 
hearts  from  all  inordinate  and  sinful  affections. 
Give  us  grace  to  be  temperate  in  all  things ;  in  our 
meats  and  drinks,  and  in  all  that  we  do :  may  we 
use  the  world  as  not  abusing  it.  Grant  that  the 
good  things  which  thou  givest  may  by  us  and  by  all 
people  be  thankfully  received,  and  used  with  sobri- 
ety and  moderation ;  that  we  may  give  good  exam- 
ples to  others ;  that  the  flesh  may  be  subject  to  thy 
Holy  Spirit,  and  that,  denying  ungodliness  and 
worldly  lusts,  we  may  live  soberly,  righteously  and 
godly  in  this  present  world.  Whether  we  eat  or 
drink,  or  whatever  we  do,  may  we  ^do  all  to  thy 
glory  in  Jesus  Christ. 

Give  thy  blessing,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  to 
those  who  associate,  and  to  all  who  labor  to  sup- 
press intemperance,  ungodliness  and  vice.  Give 
success  to  their  benevolent  efforts,  and  so  rule  their 
hearts  and  strengthen  their  hands,  that  they  may 
be  instrumental  in  promoting  sobriety  and  good 
morals.  Cause  them  to  be  unwearied  in  welldoing, 
and  reward  their  labor  of  love.  Grant  that  our 
coming  together  at  this  time  may  tend  to  the  good 
of  ourselves  and  others.  Give  to  us  and  to  all  men 
grace,  that  we  may  not  abuse  ourselves  nor  injure 
others  by  an  improper  use  of  the  things  of  time 
and  sense ;  deliver  us  from  all  inordinate  and  sin- 
ful affections,  and  help  us  to  pass  the  time  of  our 
sojourning  here  in  thy  fear,  and  to  live  as  they 
should  live  who  expect  shortly  to  give  an  account 
to  thee,  who  wih  judge  all  men  according  to  their 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  217 

A  Form  of  Service  at  the  laying  of  the  Comer  Stone  of  a  Church. 

works.  Preserve  us  from  idleness  in  what  concerns 
the  welfare  of  our  bodies  and  of  our  souls ;  may 
we  not  be  slothful  in  business,  but  fervent  in  spirit, 
serving  the  Lord.  Help  each  and  all  of  us  to  do 
our  duty  in  the  state  of  life  to  which  it  shall  please 
thee  to  call  us.  Direct  us  in  all  our  doings  with 
thy  most  gracious  favor ;  prosper  us  with  thy  con- 
tinual help,  that  in  all  our  works,  begun,  continued 
and  ended  in  thee,  we  may  glorify  thy  holy  name ; 
and  finally,  by  thy  mercy,  obtain  everlasting  life, 
through  our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 
The  grace  of  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ,  the  love  of 
God,  and  the  fellowship  of  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  with 
us  all,  evermore.  Amen. 


A  Form  of  Service  that  may  be  used  at  the  laying  of  the  Corner 
Stone  of  a  Church. 

The  several  Parts  of  the  following  Service,  as  they  are  numbered, 
may  be  divided  among  the  Clergy  who  are  present,  as  shall  be  judged 
expedient. 

1 .  Sentences  of  Scripture. 

Except  the  Lord  build  the  house,  their  labor  is 
but  lost  that  build  it ;  except  the  Lord  keep  the  city, 
the  watchmen  waketh  but  in  vain. 

The  same  stone  which  the  builders  refused,  is 
become  the  head-stone  in  the  corner.  Tins  is  the 
Lord's  doing,  and  it  is  marvellous  in  our  eyes. 

O  give  thanks  unto  the  Lord ;  for  he  is  gracious, 
and  his  mercy  endureth  forever. 

2.  Introductory  Address. 

Friends  and  brethren  :  Devout  men  of  old,  under 
the  law  and  under  the  gospel,  have  erected  houses 
for  the  public  worship  of  Almighty  God,  and  have 
19 


218  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Form  of  Service  at  the  laying  of  the  Corner  Stone  of  a  Church. 

separated  them  from  common  use,  for  the  more  de- 
cent celebration  of  the  Christian  ordinances,  and  to 
fill  men's  minds  with  greater  reverence  for  God. 
We  cannot  doubt  but  such  pious  works  are  approved 
of  God.  King  David  was  commended  for  his  desire 
to  perform  such  a  work  ;  that  it  was  in  his  heart 
to  build  God  a  house.  The  building  of  churches 
tends  very  much  to  the  promotion  of  his  holy  wor- 
ship, and  the  practice  of  good  morals  and  true  reli- 
gion. We  humbly  trust  that  He  will  favorably 
accept  of  this  our  present  purpose  of  laying,  with 
suitable  solemnities,  the  foundation  of  a  house,  to 
be  erected  to  the  honor  of  His  great  name,  and 
dedicated  to  His  holy  worship.  Let  us  then  unite 
in  asking  His  blessing  upon  this  our  undertaking. 

3.  Then  may  be  offered  the  following  Prayers,  or  other  Collects,  at 
discretion,  from  the  Book  of  Common  Prayer. 

Our  Father,  who  art  in  heaven,  hallowed  be  thy 
name.  Thy  kingdom  come ;  thy  will  be  done  on 
earth  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our 
daily  bread.  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses,  as  we 
forgive  those  who  trespass  against  us.  And  lead 
us  not  into  temptation ;  but  deliver  us  from  evil. 
For  thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power  and  the 
glory,  forever  and  ever.  Amen. 

Direct  us,  O  Lord,  in  what  we  do,  with  thy  most 
gracious  favor,  and  further  us  with  thy  continual 
help ;  and  grant  that  in  this  and  all  our  works,  we 
may  glorify  thy  holy  name,  through  Jesus  Christ, 
our  Lord.  Amen. 

O  blessed  Lord,  who  art  the  giver  of  all  good, 
visit,  we  pray  thee,  this  people  with  thy  love  and 
favor ;  enlighten  their  minds  with  the  truths  of  the 
everlasting  gospel ;  graft  in  their  hearts  the  love  of 
thy  name ;  increase  in  them  true  religion ;  nourish 
Ihem  with  all  goodness ;  and  of  thy  great  mercy, 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  219 

A  Form  of  Service  at  the  laying  of  the  Corner  Stone  of  a  Church. 

keep  them  steadfast  in  thy  faith  and  fear,  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord  and  Savior.     Amen. 

Grant,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  that  the  course 
of  this  world  may  be  so  peaceably  ordered  by  thy 
governance,  that  thy  church  may  joyfully  serve  thee 
in  all  godly  quietness,  through  the  same,  our  Lord 
and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

4.  Tlien  may  be  read  responsivety  the  84th  and  132d  Psalms. 

5.  The  following  Lesson  from  Ezra  Hi.  8,  9, 10, 1 1 ,  may  here  be  read. 

Now  in  the  second  year  of  their  coming  unto  the 
house  of  God  at  Jerusalem,  in  the  second  month, 
began  Zerubbabel,  the  son  of  Shealtiel,  and  Jeshua, 
the  son  of  Jozadak,  and  the  remnant  of  their  bre- 
thren, the  priests  and  the  Levites,  and  all  they  that 
were  come  out  of  the  captivity  unto  Jerusalem ;  and 
appointed  the  Levites,  from  twenty  years  old  and 
upward,  to  set  forward  the  work  of  the  house  of  the 
Lord.  Then  stood  Jeshua  with  his  sons  and  his 
brethren,  Kadmiel  and  his  sons,  the  sons  of  Judah, 
together,  to  set  forward  the  workmen  in  the  house 
of  God :  the  sons  of  Henadad,  with  their  sons  and 
their  brethren  the  Levites.  And  when  the  builders 
laid  the  foundation  of  the  temple  of  the  Lord,  they 
set  the  priests,  in  their  apparel,  with  trumpets,  and 
the  Levites,  the  sons  of  Asaph,  with  cymbals,  to 
praise  the  Lord,  after  the  ordinance  of  David,  king 
of  Israel.  And  they  sung  together,  by  course,  in 
praising  and  giving  thanks  unto  the  Lord,  because 
he  is  good,  for  his  mercy  endureth  forever  towards 
Israel.  And  all  the  people  shouted  with  a  great 
shout,  when  they  praised  the  Lord,  because  the 
foundation  of  the  house  of  the  Lord  was  laid. 

6.  Then  may  be  sung  the  Zath  Hymn,  I,  2,  6, 7,  8. 

7.  The  Inscription  on  the  Stone,  or  Deposttes  under  it,  may  here  be 
read. 


220  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Form  of  Service  at  the  laying  of  the  Corner  Stone  of  a  Church. 

8.  The  person  who  officiates,  having  found  that  the  Stone  is  rightly 
laid,  may  strike  it  three  times  with  a  hammer,  saying  as  follows : 

t 

In  the  name  of  the  Father,  and  of  the  Son,  and 
of  the  Holy  Ghost,  I  lay  this  corner-stone  as  the 
foundation  of  an  edifice  to  be  erected  for  a  house 
of  prayer,  and  to  be  dedicated  to  the  worship  of 
Almighty  God,  according  to  the  canons  and  liturgy 
and  usages  of  the  Protestant  Episcopal  Church  in 
the  United  States.  Amen. 

Other  foundation  can  no  man  lay,  than  that  on 
which  standeth  the  house  of  God,  which  is  the 
church  of  the  living  God,  the  pillar  and  ground  of 
the  truth ;  even  the  foundation  of  apostles  and  pro- 
phets, Jesus  Christ  himself  being  the  chief  corner- 
stone. 

Let  us  pray.  O  eternal  God,  mighty  in  power  and 
of  majesty  incomprehensible,  whom  the  heaven  of 
heavens  cannot  contain,  much  less  the  walls  of  tem- 
ples made  with  hands,  and  who  yet  didst  command 
thy  servants  of  old  to  build  houses  to  the  honor  of 
thy  great  name,  and  for  the  purpose  of  setting  forth 
thy  praise  ;  look  down,  we  beseech  thee,  with  thy 
favor  and  blessing  upon  us,  thy  unworthy  servants, 
who  are  here  assembled  in  thy  name  and  presence, 
to  lay  the  foundation  of  a  house,  with  thy  permis- 
sion, to  be  erected  to  thy  name,  and  sacred  to  thy 
worship.  Accept,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  the 
pious  intention  of  this  thy  people,  and  give  thy 
blessing  to  the  work  which  they  have  taken  in  hand. 
Preserve  them,  O  thou  God  of  mercy,  from  all  unto- 
ward accidents  and  calamitous  events.  Sanctify  their 
hearts  and  enlarge  their  means.  May  they  rejoice 
to  honor  the  Lord  with  their  substance  ;  may  their 
barns  be  filled  with  plenty,  and  their  stores  with 
increase.  Unite  them  in  harmony,  peace  and  love. 
Enable  them,  with  joy  and  gladness,  to  bring  this 
work  to  a  happy  issue,  that  this  edifice  may  be 


'GRIS  WOLD'S    PRAYERS.  221 

A  Form  of  Service  at  the  laying  of  the  Corner  Stone  of  a  Church. 

completed  and  adorned  in  a  manner  and  style 
decent,  and  suitable  to  the  honor  of  thy  name,  and 
convenient  for  the  various  parts  of  thy  holy  worship. 
Wilt  thou,  O  Lord,  watch  over  them  for  good,  and 
direct  and  bless  them  in  all  the  work.  May  this 
consecrated  spot  which  they  have  chosen,  whereon 
to  build  their  altar  and  erect  a  house  to  thee,  the 
living  God,  be  to  them  a  happy  Bethel,  where  they 
and  their  descendants,  for  many  generations,  may 
worship  thee,  their  God  and  Savior,  in  spirit  and  in 
truth.  To  this  house,  when  erected,  as  to  thy 
courts,  may  their  hearts  incline :  may  they  be  sen- 
sible that  the  Lord  is  in  this  place ;  and  may  it  be 
to  them  as  the  house  of  God  and  the  gate  of  heaven. 
May  their  thoughts  and  desires  be  raised  to  thy 
spiritual  house  not  made  with  hands,  of  which 
Jesus  Christ  is  the  chief  corner-stone ;  to  him  com- 
ing, as  unto  a  living  stone,  chosen  of  God  and  pre- 
cious, may  all  who  in  this  place  shall  call  upon  thy 
name,  as  lively  stones,  be  built  up  a  spiritual  house, 
a  holy  priesthood,  offering  sacrifices  acceptable  to 
God  by  Jesus  Christ.  Grant,  O  God,  that  all  those 
who,  through  thy  merciful  goodness,  shall  be  per- 
mitted and  inclined  hereafter  to  serve  thee  in  this 
place,  may  be  so  joined  together  in  unity  of  spirit 
and  in  the  bond  of  peace,  that  they  may  be  a  holy 
temple  acceptable  unto  thee.  And  to  all  thy  peo- 
ple, O  God,  give  thy  heavenly  grace,  and  especially 
to  us  who  are  here  present,  that  with  one  heart  we 
may  desire  and  labor  to  promote  the  prosperity  of 
thy  holy  apostolic  church,  and  with  one  mouth  may 
profess  that  true  faith  which  was  once,  by  the  in- 
spiration of  thy  Holy  Spirit,  delivered  to  the  saints. 
And  keep,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  thy  whole 
household,  the  church,  in  continual  godliness;  that, 
through  thy  protection,  it  may  be  free  from  all  ad- 
versities, and  devoutly  given  to  serve  Ihee  in  good 
works,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord,  to  whom, 
19* 


222  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Form  of  Service  at  the  laying  of  the  Corner  Stone  of  a  Church. 

with  thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all  honor  and 
glory,  world  without  end.     Amen. 

9.  Here  may  be  the  Address,  if  any  is  to  be  delivered. 

10.  Then  may  be  sung  a  portion  from  the  Psalms  or  Hymns. 

1 1 .  Conclude  with  the  Benediction. 

May  the  blessing  of  God  Almighty,  the  Father, 
the  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  amongst  you  and 
remain  with  you  always.  Amen. 


PART   FOURTH. 

OFFICES  AND  PRAYERS,  THAT  MAY  BE 

USED  IN  CHURCHES,  OR  IN  PUBLIC 

WORSHIP. 

A  Form  of  Prayer  allowed  to  be  used  on  days  appointed  by  the  Civil 
Authority  as  Public  Pasts. 

The  Service  is  to  be  as  usual,  excepting  the  alterations  hereby  per- 
mitted. 

The  Venite  Exultemus  may  be  omitted. 

Proper  Psalms.  Morning — 25thand5lst;  Evening — 86th,  \3Qthand 
143d.  The  Officiating  Minister,  at  his  discretion,  instead  of  the  above 
may  select  other  Psalms,  which,  in  his  judgment,  are  more  appropriate 
to  the  particular  occasion. 

Lessons.  Morning — First,  Isaiah,  53th  chapter;  Second,  Matthew, 
6th  chapter ;  Evening — First,  Ezekiel,  18th  chapter ;  Second,  James,  4th 
chapter. 

The  Litany  is  not  to  be  omitted. 

Immediately  before  the  General  Thanksgiving,  in  both  the  Morning 
and  the  Evening  Service,  a  part  or  all  of  me  following  Prayers  may  be 
used. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everlasting  God,  who  hatest  no- 
thing that  thou  hast  made,  and  dost  forgive  the  sins 
of  those  who  are  penitent,  create  and  make  in  us 
new  and  contrite  hearts,  that  we,  worthily  lament- 
ing our  sins,  and  acknowledging  our  wretchedness, 
may  obtain  of  thee,  the  God  of  all  mercy,  perfect 
remission  and  forgiveness,  through  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord.  Amen. 

O  Lord  God  and  merciful  Father,  who  hast  com- 
passion upon  mankind,  and  wouldst  not  the  death 


224  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  form  of  Prayer  allowed  to  be  used  on  Fast  Days. 

of  a  sinner,  but  rather  that  he  should  turn  from  his 
wickedness  and  live ;  look  down,  we  beseech  thee, 
in  mercy  upon  us,  thy  unworthy  creatures,  who 
humbly  confess  before  thee  ourv  trespasses  and  sins. 
Do  thou,  to  whom  alone  it  appertaineth  to  forgive 
sins,  spare  the  people,  whom,  in  thy  mercy,  thou 
hast  redeemed  with  the  Savior's  blood.  Enter  not 
into  judgment  with  thy  servants,  O  Lord,  nor  visit 
us  according  to  our  iniquities.  Help  us  truly  to 
acknowledge  our  vileness,  and  give  us  that  repen- 
tance which  is  not  to  be  repented  of.  Turn  us,  O 
Lord  our  God,  to  thee ;  and  we  shall  be  turned.  Be 
merciful,  O  be  merciful,  to  those  who  humbly  de- 
sire, with  weeping,  fasting  and  prayer,  to  turn  to 
thee.  Thou  art  a  God  full  of  compassion  and  long- 
suffering,  and  of  great  pity,  sparing  those  who  de- 
serve punishment,  and  in  thy  righteous  wrath  re- 
membering mercy.  Hear  us,  O  Lord,  we  beseech 
thee,  and  after  the  multitude  of  thy  mercies  blot 
out  our  offences,  and  cleanse  us  from  the  defilement 
of  sin ;  sanctify  our  hearts,  and  save  our  souls,  we 
beseech  thee,  through  the  merits  and  mediation  of 
thy  only  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  whose  wise  and 
righteous  providence  governeth  all  things  in  heaven 
and  on  earth,  look  down,  we  humbly  beseech  thee, 
in  mercy  upon  our  country,  and  upon  all  the  people 
of  these  United  States.  Restrain  thine  indignation 
against  our  multiplied  sins,  and  turn  thine  anger 
from  us.  Remember  not,  Lord,  our  offences,  but 
thy  love  to  us  in  Jesus  Christ :  O  call  to  mind  thy 
mercies,  which  have  ever  been  of  old.  From  the 
judgments  of  thy  hand  may  the  people  learn  right- 
eousness, and  may  thy  patient  goodness  and  long- 
suffering  lead  us  to  repentance.  May  peace, 
through  thy  merciful  goodness,  ever  reign  in  our 
borders,  and  our  land  continue  to  bring  forth  its 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  225 

The  Communion  Service. 

increase.  We  beseech  thee,  O  God,  to  bless  the 
governor  and  other  rulers  of  this  state,  and  all  those 
who  are  set  in  authority  over  us ;  and  so  rule  their 
hearts  and  strengthen  their  hands,  that  vice  may 
be  suppressed  and  godliness  abound.  In  all  dan- 
gers and  difficulties,  may  we  ever  look  unto  thee  as 
our  only  helper  and  sure  defence.  We  pray  that 
thy  watchful  care,  and  holy,  protecting  providence, 
may  be  over  us  for  good.  Guide  us  continually 
with  thy  unerring  counsel ;  direct  and  prosper  us  in 
all  we  do,  and  preserve  us  from  desolating  judg- 
ments and  calamitous  events.  Grant,  O  God,  to  us 
and  to  all  thy  people,  that  we  may  so  love  the 
things  which  thou  commaridest,  and  desire  those 
which  thou  dost  promise,  that,  among  the  sundry 
and  manifold  changes  of  the  world,  our  hearts  may 
surely  there  be  fixed  where  true  joys  are  to  be 
found.  These  and  all  other  necessaries  for  us,  and 
for  our  rulers,  and  for  all  estates  of  thy  people  in 
this  our  favored  country,  we  humbly  beg  in  the 
name,  and  through  the  mediation,  of  Jesus  Christ, 
most  blessed  Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 

THE  COMMUNION  SERVICE. 

The  Collects.  O  blessed  Lord,  who  didst  direct 
that  thy  disciples  should  fast  when  the  bridegroom 
should  be  taken  from  them,  and  who  for  our  sakes 
and  for  our  example  didst  thyself  fast  upon  the 
earth,  -give  us  grace,  we  beseech  thee,  to  use  such 
abstinence  and  self-denial,  that  our  flesh  may  be 
subdued  to  the  spirit,  and  that  we  may  ever  obey 
thy  godly  motions  in  righteousness  and  true  holi- 
ness, to  thy  honor  and  glory,  who  livest  and  reign- 
est  with  the  Father  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  one  God, 
world  without  end.  Amen. 

O  holy,  eternal  and  gracious  God,  whose  ways 
O 


226  GRISWOUVS    PRAYERS. 

The  Communion  Service. 

are  all  righteous,  and  whose  mercies  cannot  be 
numbered,  we,  thy  sinful  people,  this  day  assem- 
bled, in  thy  name  and  presence,  to  bow  before  thee 
with  fasting,  humiliation  and  prayer,  do  humbly 
confess  our  manifold  sins,  and  acknowledge  that  it 
is  of  thy  mercies  that  we  are  not  consumed.  Great 
and  manifold  have  been,  and  still  are,  thy  blessings 
bestowed  upon  us,  and  upon  our  country,  whilst, 
by  our  sins  and  wickedness,  we  have  provoked  thy 
just  wrath  and  indignation  against  us.  O  be  thou 
merciful  to  us,  thy  unworthy  creatures ;  enter  not 
into  judgment  with  those  who,  in  thy  sight,  must 
be  condemned.  Make  us  deeply  sensible  of  our 
evil  hearts  and  sinful  ways.  Work  in  us  a  hearty 
contrition ;  give  us  that  godly  sorrow  for  sin  which 
worketh  true  repentance.  O  take  not  thy  Holy 
Spirit  from  us;  work  in  us,  we  beseech  thee,  to  will 
and  to  do  what  is  pleasing  in  thy  sight.  Turn  us 
from  the  error  of  our  ways ;  renew  us  in  the  spirit 
of  our  minds,  and  create  us  again  unto  good  works, 
that  we  may  walk  before  thee  in  faith  and  right- 
eousness, and  finally  be  inheritors  of  thine  ever- 
lasting kingdom.  And  grant,  O  Lord,  that  our  land 
may  still  enjoy  the  light  of  thy  truth,  and  the  bles- 
sings of  thy  bountiful  hand.  Remove  from  us  all 
spiritual  ignorance,  and  preserve  us  from  an  evil 
heart  of  unbelief,  that  we  may  never  depart  from 
thee,  the  only  living  God.  Be  thou  with  us,  as 
thou  wast  with  our  fathers;  and  bless  us,  our  God, 
even  as  thou  blessedst  them,  to  thy  honor  and  glory, 
and  to  our  comfort  and  salvation  in  Jesus  Christ. 
Amen. 

The  Epistle.  Ephesians  iv.  17.  This  I  say, 
therefore,  and  testify  in  the  Lord,  that  ye  hence- 
forth walk  riot  as  other  Gentiles  walk,  in  the  vanity 
of  their  mind ;  having  the  understanding  darkened ; 
being  alienated  from  the  life  of  God,  through  the 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  227 

The  Communion  Service. 

ignorance  that  is  in  them,  because  of  the  blindness 
of  their  heart ;  who,  being  past  feeling,  have  given 
themselves  over  unto  lasciviousness,  to  work  all 
uncleanness  with  greediness.  But  ye  have, not  so 
learned  Christ ;  if  so  be  that  ye  have  heard  him, 
and  have  been  taught  by  him,  as  the  truth  is  in 
Jesus ;  that  ye  put  off,  concerning  the  former  con- 
versation, the  old  man,  which  is  corrupt,  according 
to  the  deceitful  lusts ;  and  be  renewed  in  the  spirit 
of  your  mind ;  and  that  ye  put  on  the  new  man, 
which  after  God  is  created  in  righteousness  and 
true  holiness.  Wherefore  putting  away  lying, 
speak  every  man  truth  with  his  neighbor  ;  for  we 
are  members  one  of  another.  Be  ye  angry  and  sin 
not;  let  not  the  sun  go  down  upon  your  wrath; 
neither  give  place  to  the  devil.  Let  him  that  stole 
steal  no  more ;  but  rather  let  him  labor,  working 
with  his  hands  the  thing  which  is  good,  that  he 
may  have  to  give  to  him  who  needeth.  Let  no 
corrupt  communication  proceed  out  of  your  mouth, 
but  that  which  is  good  to  the  use  of  edifying,  that 
it  may  minister  grace  unto  the  hearers.  And  grieve 
not  the  Holy  Spirit  of  God,  whereby  ye  are  sealed 
unto  the  day  of  redemption.  Let  all  bitterness,  and 
wrath,  and  anger,  and  clamor,  and  evil-speaking  be 
put  away  from  you,  with  all  malice ;  and  be  ye  kind 
one  to  another,  tender-hearted,  forgiving  one  another, 
even  as  God,  for  Christ's  sake,  hath  forgiven  you. 

The  Gospel.  St.  Luke  xiii.  1.  There  were  pre- 
sent at  that  season  some  who  told  him  of  the  Gali- 
leans, whose  blood  Pilate  had  mingled  with  their 
sacrifices.  And  Jesus,  answering,  said  unto  them, 
Suppose  ye  that  these  Galileans  were  sinners  above 
all  the  Galileans  because  they  suffered  such  things? 
I  tell  you  nay ;  but,  except  ye  repent,  ye  shall  all 
likewise  perish.  Or  those  eighteen  on  whom  the 
tower  in  Siloam  fell  and  slew  them,  think  ye  that 


228  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  to  be  used  in  Seasons  of  much  Sickness. 

they  were  sinners  above  all  men  who  dwelt  in  Jeru- 
salem? I  tell  you  nay;  but,  except  ye  repent,  ye 
shall  all  likewise  perish.  He  spake  also  this  para- 
ble :  A  certain  man  had  a  fig-tree  planted  in  his 
vineyard;  and  he  came  and  sought  fruit  thereon, 
and  found  none.  Then  said  he  unto  the  dresser  of 
his  vineyard,  Behold,  these  three  years  I  come 
seeking  fruit  on  this  fig-tree,  and  find  none :  cut  it 
down ;  why  cumbereth  it  the  ground  1  And  he, 
answering,  said  unto  him,  Lord,  let  it  alone  this 
year  also,  till  I  shall  dig  about  it  and  dung  it :  and 
if  it  bear  fruit,  well ;  and  if  not,  then  after  that  thou 
shall  cut  it  down. 

Churches  who  desire,  in  their  public  worship,  to  pray  particularly  for 
the  Governor  and  Legislature  of  their  State,  may,  in  the  Prayer  for  the 
President  of  the  United  States,  and  all  in  civil  authority,  after  the  words 
the  President  of  the  United  States,  add,  the  Governpr  of  this  State. 

When  Congress  and  the  Legislature  of  the  State  are  in  session  at  the 
same  time,  after  the  words  in  the  Prayer  for  Congress,  in  Congress  as- 
sembled, may  be  added,  and  for  the  Legislature  of  this  State  (or  General 
Court  of  this  Common  wealth)  in  their  present  session. 

When  the  Legislature  of  the  State  is  in  session,  and  the  Congress  not 
so,  the  prayer  for  Congress  may  be  used  ;  but  instead  of  the  words,  as  for 
the  people  of  these  United  Slates  in  general,  so  especially  for  their 
Senate  and  Representatives  in  Congress  assembled,  may  be  substituted, 
as  for  the  people  of  this  State  (or  Commonwealth)  in  general,  so  espe- 
cially for  our  Legislature  (or  General  Court)  in  their  present  session. 


A  Prayer  to  be  used  in  Seasons  of  much  Sickness,  or  Epidemic  Diseases. 

O  GOD  and  merciful  Father,  who  despisest  not 
the  sighing  of  a  contrite  heart,  nor  the  humble  sup- 
plications of  those  who  fly  to  thee  for  succor  and 
seek  thy  face  in  prayer,  look  down,  we  beseech 
thee,  with  pity  upon  us  thy  dependent,  unworthy 
creatures.  We  acknowledge,  O  God,  that  we  have 
sinned  and  done  wickedly  in  departing  from  thy 
precepts  and  thy  judgments,  provoking  thy  just 
wrath  and  indignation  against  us.  We  would 


GRISWOL1)'S    PRAYERS.  229 

A  Prayer  to  be  used  in  Seasons  of  much  Sickness. 

humbly  bewail  our  ingratitude  and  forgetfulness 
ef  thy  goodness :  that  our  affections  towards  thee 
are  so  cold,  while  thy  mercies  to  us  are  so  abun- 
dant. Help  us,  O  heavenly  Father,  earnestly  to 
repent ;  and  work  in  us  a  godly  sorrow  for  all  our 
misdeeds.  It  is  of  thy  mercy  that  we  are  not  con- 
sumed ;  in  the  midst  of  life  we  are  in  death ;  to 
whom  can  we  fly  for  aid  but  to  thee,  the  God  of 
mercy,  and  the  Father  of  our  Savior  Christ.  Look 
with  compassion  upon  us,  and  upon  our  country : 
while  thy  judgments  are  abroad  in  the  earth,  may 
the  people  of  this  land  learn  righteousness,  and  so 
turn  to  thee  with  penitence  and  prayer,  that  thou 
wilt  turn  from  us  all  those  evils  which  our  sins 
have  deserved.  Preserve  us,  O  thou  God  of  mercy, 
from  the  pestilence  which  walketh  in  darkness, 
and  from  the  desolating  scourge  now  visiting  the 
earth  [our  country]  and  approaching  our  borders. 
Remember  not,  Lord,  our  offences ;  spare  in  mercy 
those  Avhom  in  love  thou  hast  redeemed.  From  al  I 
pestilential  diseases,  and  the  sickness  which  de- 
stroys at  noon-day,  good  Lord,  deliver  us  and  the 
inhabitants  of  this  our  country. 

And  we  beseech  thee,  O  God,  in  the  plenitude  of 
thy  mercy,  to  behold  with  pity  all  the  countries  and 
parts  of  the  earth  which  are  visited  with  distressing 
sickness  and  prevailing  mortal  diseases.  O  stay 
the  hand  of  the  destroying  angel,  and  say  to  the 
affliction,  It  is  enough.  And  grant  that  the  visita- 
tions of  thy  righteous  providence  may  cause  us, 
and  all  the  inhabitants  of  the  earth,  to  remember 
that  the  Lord  ruleth,  and  that  sickness,  and  pains, 
and  death,  are  the  dispensations  of  thy  righteous 
hand,  and  less  than  our  sins  deserve.  Awakened 
by  thy  warning  voice,  may  we  turn  to  thee,  the 
Lord  God  of  our  salvation,  and  put  our  trust  in 
thee  alone.  And  grant  that  thy  forbearing  mercy, 
so  long  extended  to  this  our  favored  country,  may 
20 


230  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Thanksgiving  for  Deliverance  from  great  Sickness  and  Mortality. 

fill  our  hearts  with  gratitude  and  love.  Assist  us 
mercifully  with  thy  heavenly  grace,  and  dispose  all 
our  ways  towards  the  attainment  of  everlasting 
salvation ;  and  among  all  the  changes,  and  perils, 
and  other  trials  of  this  mortal  life,  direct  and  sup- 
port us  by  thy  most  gracious  and  ready  help, 
through  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed  Lord  and  Savior. 
Amen. 


A  Thanksgiving  for  Deliverance  from  great  Sickness  and  Mortality: 

ALMIGHTY  and  immortal  God,  who  art  the  giver 
of  all  good,  and  whose  mercy  is  over  all  thy  works, 
we  adore  thee  for  thy  great  goodness,  and  for  all  the 
wonders  which  thou  dost  for  the  children  of  men. 
To  thee  belong  mercy  and  forgiveness,  though  we 
have  sinned  against  thee.  Thou  art  patient  and 
long-suffering,  and  in  the  midst  of  judgment  re- 
memberest  mercy,  turning  from  us  many  evils 
which  we  most  justly  have -deserved.  We  render 
thee,  O  God,  our  humble  thanks  and  praise,  that 
thou  deliverest  thy  people  from  the  pestilence  that 
walketh  in  darkness,  and  from  the  sickness  which 
destroyeth  at  noon-day.  We  give  thanks  to  thee, 
the  God  of  all  mercy,  for  having  preserved  us,  thy 
unworthy  creatures,  through  the  late  distressing 
sickness  and  mortality,  with  which,  for  our  sins, 
thou  hast  visited  our  land.  The  sorrows  of  death 
encompassed  us :  we  called  upon  thee  in  the  time  of 
trouble ;  we  besought  thee  to  save  our  soul,  and 
found  thee  gracious  and  merciful.  Thou  hast  de- 
livered our  soul  from  death,  our  eyes  from  tears, 
and  our  feet  from  falling.  Though  many  have 
fallen  beside  us,  and  are  now  resting  in  their  graves, 
our  lives  are  yet  prolonged,  and  we  are  permitted  to 
praise  thee  for  thy  goodness.  Give  us  grace  to  be 


ORISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  231 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

duly  thankful  for  this  thy  great  mercy,  and  grant 
that  the  lives  which  thou  preservest  may  be  devot- 
ed to  thee.  Help  us  to  walk  before  thee  in  the 
land  of  the  living;  to  take  the  cup  of  salvation;  to 
offer  thee  the  sacrifice  of  thankful  hearts  and  holy 
lives.  We  would  pay  our  vows  unto  thee,  in  the 
sight  of  all  thy  people,  acknowledging  it  to  be  of 
thy  mercy  that  we  are  not  consumed,  and  beseech- 
ing thee  to  give  us  grace  to  show  our  thankfulness 
by  obedience  to  thy  laws,  and  by  lives  devoted  to 
thee,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord,  to  whom,  with 
thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all  glory  and  praise, 
world  without  end.  Amen. 


The  following  Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead  is  allowed  to  be  used 
when  the  Corpse  is  carried  into  the  Church. 

The  Minister  shall  begin  the  service  by  reading  the  following  sen- 
tences of  Scripture. 

I  AM  the  resurrection  and  the  life,  saith  the 
Lord ;  he  that  believeth  in  me,  though  he  were 
dead,  yet  shall  he  live ;  and  whosoever  liveth  and 
believeth  in  me  shall  never  die.  St.  John  xi. 
25,  26. 

I  know  that  my  Redeemer  liveth,  and  that  he 
shall  stand  at  the  latter  day  upon  the  earth  ;  and 
though  after  my  skin  worms  destroy  this  body,  yet 
in  my  flesh  shall  I  see  God  ;  whom  I  shall  see  for 
myself,  and  mine  eyes  shall  behold,  and  not  an- 
other. Job  xix.  25,  26,  27. 

We  brought  nothing  into  this  world,  and  it  is 
certain  we  can  carry  nothing  out.  1  Tim.  vi.  7. 

The  Lord  gave,  and  the  Lord  hath  taken  away ; 
blessed  be  the  name  of  the  Lord.  Job  i.  21. 


232  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

The  Minister  may  then  say,  Let  us  pray,  and  proceed  with  the  Gene- 
ral Confession. 

Almighty  and  most  merciful  Father,  we  have 
erred,  and  strayed  from  thy  ways  like  lost  sheep. 
We  have  followed  too  much  the  devices  and  desires 
of  our  own  hearts.  We  have  offended  against  thy 
holy  laws.  We  have  left  undone  those  things 
which  we  ought  to  have  done,  and  we  have  done 
those  things  which  we  ought  not  to  have  done ;  and 
there  is  no  health  in  us.  But  thou,  O  Lord,  have 
mercy  upon  us  miserable  offenders.  Spare  thou 
those,  O  God,  who  confess  their  faults.  Restore 
thou  those  who  are  penitent ;  according  to  thy  pro- 
mises declared  unto  mankind,  in  Christ  Jesus,  our 
Lord.  And  grant,  O  most  merciful  Father,  for  his 
sake,  that  we  may  hereafter  live  a  godly,  right- 
eous, and  sober  life,  to  the  glory  of  thy  holy  name. 
Amen. 

Our  Father  who  art  in  heaven,  hallowed  be  thy 
name.  Thy  kingdom  come  ;  thy  will  be  done  on 
earth  as  it  is  in  heaven.  Give  us  this  day  our  daily 
bread.  And  forgive  us  our  trespasses,  as  we  for- 
give those  who  trespass  against  us.  And  lead  us 
not  into  temptation  ;  but  deliver  us  from  evil.  For 
thine  is  the  kingdom,  and  the  power,  and  the  glory, 
for  ever  and  ever.  Amen. 

Then  likewise  may  be  added : 

Minister.     O  Lord,  open  thou  our  lips. 
Answer.     And  our  mouth  shall  show  forth  thy 
praise. 

Then  shall  be  said  the  following  selection  from  the  39<A  and  the  90th 
Psalms. 

Lord,  let  me  know  my  end,  and  the  number  of 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  233 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

my  days,  that  1  may  be  certified  how  long  I  have 
to  live. 

Behold,  thou  hast  made  my  days  as  it  were  a 
span  long,  and  mine  age  is  even  as  nothing  in  re- 
spect of  thee ;  and  verily,  every  man  living  is  alto- 
gether vanity. 

For  man  walketh  in  a  vain  shadow,  and  dis- 
quieteth  himself  in  vain  :  he  heapeth  up  riches,  and 
cannot  tell  who  shall  gather  them. 

And  now,  Lord,  what  is  my  hope  ?  Truly  my 
hope  is  in  thee. 

Deliver  me  from  all  mine  offences,  and  make  me 
not  a  rebuke  unto  the  foolish. 

When  thou  with  rebukes  dost  chasten  man  for 
sin,  thou  makest  his  beauty  to  consume  away,  like 
as  it  were  a  moth  fretting  a  garment :  every  man, 
therefore,  is  but  vanity. 

Hear  my  prayer,  O  Lord,  and  with  thine  ears 
consider  my  calling:  hold  not  thy  peace  at  my 
tears. 

For  I  am  a  stranger  with  thee,  and  a  sojourner, 
as  all  my  fathers  were. 

O  save  me  a  little,  that  I  may  recover  my 
strength,  before  I  go  hence,  and  be  no  more  seen. 

Lord,  thou  hast  been  our  refuge,  from  one  gene- 
ration to  another. 

Before  the  mountains  were  brought  forth,  or  ever 
the  earth  and  the  world  were  made,  thou  art  God 
from  everlasting,  and  world  without  end. 

Thou  turnest  man  to  destruction;  again  thou 
sayest,  Come  again,  ye  children  of  men. 

For  a  thousand  years  in  thy  sight  are  but  as 
yesterday ;  seeing  that  is  past  as  a  watch  in  the 
night. 

As  soon  as  thou  scatterest  them,  they  are  even  as 
a  sleep,  and  fade  away  suddenly  like  the  grass. 

In  the  morning  it  is  green  and  groweth  up;  but 
20* 


234  QRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead.  ~" 

in  the  evening  it  is  cut  down,  dried  up  and  wi- 
thered. 

For  we  consume  away  in  thy  displeasure,  and 
are  afaid  at  thy  wrathful  indignation. 

Thou  hast  set  our  misdeeds  before  thee,  and  our 
secret  sins  in  the  light  of  thy  countenance. 

For  when  thou  art  angry,  all  our  days  are  gone ; 
we  bring  our  years  to  an  end,  like  a  tale  that  is  told. 

The  days  of  our  age  are  threescore  years  and  ten ; 
and  though  men  be  so  strong  that  they  come  to 
fourscore  years,  yet  is  their  strength  then  but  labor 
and  sorrow ;  so  soon  passeth  it  away,  and  we  are 
gone. 

So  teach  us  to  number  our  days,  that  we  may 
apply  our  hearts  unto  wisdom. 

Glory  be  to  the  Father,  and  to  the  Son,  and  to 
the  Holy  Ghost. 

As  it  was  in  the  beginning,  is  now,  and  ever  shall 
be,  world  without  end.  Amen. 

Then  shall  be  read  the  following  Lesson. 

1  Corinthians  xv.  20.  Now  is  Christ  risen  from 
the  dead,  and  become  the  first-fruits  of  them 
that  slept.  For  since  by  man  came  death,  by 
man  came  also  the  resurrection  of  the  dead. 
For  as  in  Adam  all  die,  even  so  in  Christ  shall 
all  be  made  alive.  But  every  man  in  his  own 
order;  Christ  the  first-fruits;  afterwards,  they 
that  are  Christ's  at  his  coming.  Then  coineth  the 
end,  when  he  shall  have  delivered  up  the  kingdom 
to  God,  even  the  Father ;  when  he  shall  have  put 
down  all  rule,  and  all  authority  and  power.  For 
he  must  reign  till  he  hath  put  all  enemies  under 
his  feet.  The  last  enemy  that  shall  be  destroyed  is 
death;  for  he  hath  put  all  things  under  his  feet. 
But  when  he  saith,  all  things  are  put  under 
him,  ft  is  manifest  that  he  is  excepted  which  did 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  235 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

put  all  things  under  him.  And  when  all  things 
shall  be  subdued  unto  him,  then  shall  the  Son  also 
himself  be  subject  unto  him  that  put  all  things 
under  him,  that  God  may  be  all  in  all.  Else  what 
shall  they  do  who  are  baptized  for  the  dead,  if  the 
dead  rise  not  at  all?  Why  are  they  then  baptized 
for  the  dead?  And  why  stand  we  in  jeopardy 
every  hour  ?  I  protest  by  your  rejoicing,  which  I 
have  in  Christ  Jesus  our  Lord,  I  die  daily.  If  after 
the  manner  of  men  I  have  fought  with  beasts  at 
Ephesus,  what  advantageth  it  me  if  the  dead  rise 
not?  Let  us  eat  and  drink,  for  to-morrow  we  die. 
Be  not  deceived ;  evil  communications  corrupt  good 
manners.  Awake  to  righteousness  and  sin  not; 
for  some  have  not  the  knowledge  of  God.  I  speak 
this  to  your  shame.  But  some  man  will  say,  How 
are  the  dead  raised  up?  and  with  what  body  do 
they  come  ?  Thou  fool,  that  which  thou  sowest  is 
not  quickened  except  it  die ;  and  that  which  thou 
sowest,  thou  sowest  not  that  body  which  shall  be, 
but  bare  grain ;  it  may  chance  of  wheat,  or  of  some 
other  grain.  But  God  giveth  it  a  body  as  it  hath 
pleased  him ;  and  to  every  seed  its  own  body.  All 
flesh  is  not  the  same  flesh  ;  but  there  is  one  kind  of 
flesh  of  men,  another  flesh  of  beasts,  another  of 
fishes,  and  another  of  birds.  There  are  also  celes- 
tial bodies,  and  bodies  terrestrial ;  but  the  glory  of 
the  celestial  is  one,  and  the  glory  of  the  terrestrial 
is  another.  There  is  one  glory  of  the  sun,  and  an- 
other glory  of  the  moon,  and  another  glory  of  the 
stars;  for  one  star  differeth  from  another  star  in 
glory.  So  also  is  the  resurrection  of  the  dead.  It 
is  sown  in  corruption,  it  is  raised  in  incorruption ; 
it  is  sown  in  dishonor,  it  is  raised  in  glory;  it  is 
sown  in  weakness,  it  is  raised  in  power  ;  it  is  sown 
a  natural  body,  it  is  raised  a  spiritual  body.  There 
is  a  natural  body,  and  there  is  a  spiritual  body. 
And  so  it  is  written,  The  first  man,  Adam,  was 


236  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead.  "" 

made  a  living  soul ;  the  last  Adam  was  made  a 
quickening  spirit.  Howbeit,  that  was  not  first 
which  is  spiritual,  but  that  which  is  natural ;  and 
afterwards  that  which  is  spiritual.  The  first  man 
is  of  the  earth,  earthy  ;  the  second  man  is  the  Lord 
from  heaven.  As  is  the  earthy,  such  are  they  also 
that  are  earthy ;  and  as  is  the  heavenly,  such  are 
they  also  that  are  heavenly.  And  as  we  have  borne 
the  image  of  the  earthy,  we  shall  also  bear  the  image 
of  the  heavenly.  Now  this  I  say,  brethren,  that 
flesh  and  blood  cannot  inherit  the  kingdom  of  God ; 
neither  doth  corruption  inherit  incorruption.  Be- 
hold, I  show  you  a  mystery :  we  shall  not  all  sleep ; 
but  we  shall  all  be  changed,  in  a  moment,  in  the 
twinkling  of  an  eye,  at  the  last  trump :  for  the  trum- 
pet shall  sound,  and  the  dead  shall  be  raised  incor- 
ruptible, and  we  shall  be  changed.  For  this  cor- 
ruptible must  put  on  incorruption,  and  this  mortal 
must  put  on  immortality.  So  when  this  corruptible 
shall  have  put  on  incorruption,  and  this  mortal  shall 
have  put  on  immortality,  then  shall  be  brought  to 
pass  the  saying  that  is  written,  Death  is  swallowed 
up  in  victory.  O  death,  where  is  thy  sting !  O 
grave,  where  is  thy  victory  !  The  sting  of  death 
is  sin,  and  the  strength  of  sin  is  the  law :  but  thanks 
be  to  God,  who  giveth  us  the  victory,  through  our 
Lord  Jesus  Christ.  Therefore,  my  beloved  bre- 
thren, be  ye  steadfast,  unmovable,  always  abound- 
ing in  the  work  of  the  Lord ;  forasmuch  as  ye  know 
that  your  labor  is  not  in  vain  in  the  Lord. 

The  Minister  may  add  any  of  the  following  Prayers,  saying, 

Let  us  pray.  O  God  and  merciful  Father,  who 
despisest  not  the  sighing  of  a  contrite  heart,  nor  the 
desire  of  those  who  are  visited  with  sorrow,  merci- 
fully hear  the  prayers  which  we  offer  before  thee  in 
all  our  troubles  and  adversities.  Look,  we  humbly 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  237 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

beseech  thee,  upon  our  infirmities;  and,  for  the 
glory  of  thy  name,  turn  from  us  all  those  evils 
which  we  most  justly  have  deserved;  and  grant 
that  in  all  the  troubles  and  afflictions  which  thou, 
in  thy  unerring  wisdom,  seest  it  fitting  to  lay  upon 
us,  we  may  put  our  whole  trust  and  confidence  in 
thy  mercy,  and  continually  serve  thee  in  holiness 
and  pureness  of  living,  to  thy  honor  and  glory, 
through  our  only  mediator  and  advocate,  Jesus 
Christ,  our  Lord.  Amen. 

Almighty  God,  who,  through  thine  only  begotten 
Son,  Jesus  Christ,  hast  overcome  death,  and  opened 
unto  us  the  gate  of  everlasting  life,  quicken  us,  we 
beseech  thee,  by  thy  Holy  Spirit,  and  raise  our 
thoughts  and  desires  to  thee ;  that,  among  all  the 
sorrows,  and  the  manifold  changes  of  this  world, 
our  hearts  and  hopes  may  surely  there  be  fixed 
where  true  joys  are  to  be  found.  Strengthen  our 
faith  by  the  knowledge  of  Christ,  and  the  power  of 
his  resurrection  ;  dispose  our  ways  towards  the  at- 
tainment of  everlasting  salvation,  that  in  all  the 
trials  of  this  mortal  life  thy  grace  may  be  our  help 
and  comfort,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Savior. 
Amen. 

O  merciful  God  and  heavenly  Father,  who  hast 
taught  us  in  thy  holy  word  that  thou  dost  not  wil- 
lingly afflict  or  grieve  the  children  of  men,  look 
with  pity,  we  beseech  thee,  upon  the  sorrows  of  thy 
servants,  who,  on  this  occasion,  are  called  to  mourn 
for  the  death  of  a  near  relative  and  dear  friend.  It 
has  seemed  good  to  thy  unerring  wisdom  to  visit 
them  with  sorrow,  and  to  bring  this  great  distress 
upon  them.  Remember  them,  O  Lord,  in  mercy; 
sanctify  this  affliction  to  their  spiritual  benefit. 
Endue  their  soul  with  patience  under  their  suffer- 
ing, and  with  resignation  to  thy  holy  will.  Comfort 


238  ORISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

them  with  a  sense  of  thy  goodness  ;  lift  upon  them 
the  light  of  thy  reconciled  countenance,  and  give 
them  peace,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

Almighty  and  overliving  God,  the  giver  and  the 
preserver  of  our  lives ;  the  aid  of  all  who  need ;  the 
helper  of  all  who  fly  to  thee  for  succor;  the  life  of 
those  who  believe,  and  the  resurrection  of  the  dead, 
with  reverence  and  adoration  we  desire  to  approach 
thy  throne.  Assist  us,  we  beseech  thee,  in  our 
supplications  and  prayers.  Mercifully  look  upon 
our  infirmities,  and  comfort  and  support  us  in  all 
the  various  changes  and  sorrows  of  this  mortal, 
sinful  state.  We  know,  and  acknowledge,  that  all 
things  in  heaven  and  on  earth  are  at  thy  wise  and 
just  disposal,  and  that  not  a  sparrow  falls  except 
the  Lord  permit.  Sickness,  and  pains,  and  death, 
are  the  dispensations  of  thy  righteous  hand,  and 
are  less  than  our  sins  deserve.  Grant  us  grace,  in 
every  affliction,  to  confide  in  thy  merciful  goodness. 
Make  us  duly  thankful  that,  in  the  gospel  of  Jesus 
Christ,  life  and  immortality  are  brought  to  light ;  and 
that  thou  hast  prepared,  for  those  who  love  thee, 
such  good  things  as  pass  man's  understanding. 
Raise  our  affections  and  our  desires  front  the  world 
to  thee,  and  our  souls  from  the  death  of  sin  to  a  life 
of  righteousness. 

Sanctify,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  this  instance 
of  mortality  to  all  of  us  who,  through  thy  forbear- 
ing mercy,  still  survive.  May  it  awaken  in  our 
minds  serious  thoughts  upon  our  latter  end,  and 
quicken  our  diligence  in  preparing  for  the  same  im- 
portant change.  May  we  find,  from  blessed  expe- 
rience, that  it  is  better  to  go  to  the  house  of  mourn- 
ing than  to  the  house  of  feasting ;  and  when  it  shall 
please  thee  to  call  us  hence,  may  we  die  the  death 
of  the  righteous,  and  our  last  end  be  like  his. 

Accept,  O  Lord,  of  our  humble  intercessions  for 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  239 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

our  mourning  friends  who  are  following  the  lifeless 
remains  of  their  dear  relative  [or,  as  the  case  may 
be,]  to  the  grave.  Hear  us,  O  Lord,  for  them,  though 
unworthy  to  ask  for  ourselves ;  and  so  regard  their 
sorrows,  that  they  may  find,  in  the  bosom  of  their 
God,  that  comfort  and  peace  which  the  world  can- 
not give.  Support  them  in  their  afflictions,  and 
direct  their  hearts  and  their  hopes  to  that  Savior  of 
their  souls  who  has  said,  Blessed  are  they  who 
mourn,  for  they  shall  be  comforted.  May  their 
mourning  be  after  a  godly  sort ;  may  they  know 
from  blessed  experience  that  the  Lord  loveth  those 
whom  he  chasteneth,  and  be  enabled  to  say,  Thy 
will  be  done.  Help  them  to  see  justice  in  thy  deal- 
ings, wisdom  in  thy  providence,  and  love  in  thy 
correction ;  and  to  be  sensible  that  it  is  good  for 
them  that  they  have  been  afflicted.  Endue  them 
with  patience  under  this  distressing  bereavement, 
and  with  pious  resignation  to  thy  blessed  will ;  and 
help  them  to  make  such  improvement  from  their 
sorrows,  that  what  seemeth  to  them  so  great  a  loss, 
may,  through  thy  blessing,  tend  to  their  eternal 
gain.  While  following  the  remains  of  their  friend 
to  the  house  appointed  for  all  flesh,  may  the  conso- 
lations of  thy  peace  be  with  them  ;  and,  viewing  the 
grave  as  the  place  where  the  Lord  Jesus  lay,  may 
their  hopes  be  raised  to  the  high  and  holy  place 
where  he  forever  reigneth.  These  things,  and  what- 
ever else  thou  seest  fitting  for  us,  for  our  mourning 
friends,  and  for  all  mankind,  we  humbly  ask  in  the 
name  and  through  the  merits  of  him  who  is  the 
resurrection  and  the  life,  our  Lord  and  Savior, 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 

The  following  may  be  used  when  the  last  of  the  above  is  omitted;  espe- 
cially at  the  f\mcralofa  Child. 

O  Father  of  mercies  and  God  of  all  comfort,  who 


240  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

art  our  only  hope  in  time  of  need,  we  look  unto 
thee  in  the  name  of  Jesus  Christ,  confident  that 
thou  wilt  hear  the  prayer  of  faith,  and  impart  thy 
grace  to  those  who  need.  We  beseech  thee  to  be- 
hold us  in  mercy ;  to  forgive  our  sins,  and  to  hear 
our  prayers.  Righteous  art  thou,  O  God,  in  all  thy 
ways,  and  merciful  and  good  in  thy  dealings  with 
the  children  of  men.  Our  sufferings  are  less  than 
our  sins  deserve :  it  is  of  thy  mercy,  and  because 
thy  compassion  faileth  not,  that  we  are  not  con- 
sumed. But  thou  knowest,  Lord,  our  weakness, 
and  how  little  it  is  that  we  can  endure ;  that  our 
faith  fail  not,  and  for  the  glory  of  thy  name,  turn 
from  us,  we  beseech  thee,  the  evils  of  life,  or  give 
us  grace  to  bear  them  with  due  submission  to  thy 
holy  will.  Behold,  and  bless  us  on  this  occasion, 
when  called  to  weep  with  those  whom  thy  righteous 
providence  has  called  to  weep.  Let  thy  Holy  Spirit 
be  with  us,  to  sanctify  our  hearts,  and  inspire  ns 
with  a  just  sense  of  thy  character,  and  of  our  duty. 
Cause  us  to  know  our  end,  and  the  number  of  our 
days,  how  few  they  are,  that  we  may  duly  reflect 
how  short  a  time  we  have  to  live.  Thou  hast 
made  our  days  but  few,  and  our  age  is  as  nothing, 
compared  with  thee.  In  middle  age,  and  in  youth, 
and  in  childhood,  is  man  cut  down  like  a  flower. 
May  the  shortness  of  the  time  allotted  us  make  us 
more  diligent  in  performing  what  our  hands  find  to 
do  ;  remembering  that  no  work  can  be  done  in  the 
grave  whither  we  go.  While  we  sympathize  in  the 
sorrows  of  our  mourning  friends,  raise,  we  beseech 
thee,  our  thoughts  and  our  hopes  to  those  heavenly 
things  which  thou  hast  promised  to  the  faithful  in 
a  better  world;  and  while  we  see  and  feel  that  the 
wages  of  sin  is  death,  may  we  rejoice  and  be  thank- 
ful that  the  gift  of  God  is  eternal  life,  through  Jesus 
Christ ;  who,  by  rising  from  the  dead,  hath  become 
the  first-fruits  of  those  who  sleep,  that  in  him  this 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  241 

Office  for  the  Burial  of  the  Dead. 

mortal  shall  put  on  immortality ;  that  he  will  change 
these  our  perishing  bodies,  and  make  them  like  unto 
his  own  glorious  body,  and  death  shall  be  swallow- 
ed up  in  victory.  Make  us  duly  thankful  that  there 
is  a  place  of  refuge,  a  God  hearing  prayer,  to  whom 
the  afflicted  may  fly  for  comfort  and  peace.  In  the 
confidence  of  this  belief,  and  trusting  in  thy  mercy, 
through  the  merits  of  our  Savior,  we  commend  to 
thy  compassionate  goodness  the  afflicted  family 
from  whom  thou  hast  taken  a  beloved  child.  Be- 
hold them,  O  Lord,  in  mercy,  and  sanctify  their 
sorrows.  Make  them  sensible  that  thou  art  just 
and  good,  and  give  them  grace  to  be  resigned  to  thy 
holy  will.  May  they  say  in  their  heart,  It  is  the 
Lord  ;  let  him  do  what  seemeth  to  him  good.  May 
they,  on  this  distressing  occasion,  be  still  and  know 
that  thou  art  God,  and  that  thou  makest  all  things 
work  together  for  good  to  those  who  love  thee.  May 
they  think,  with  thankfulness,  on  the  many  bles- 
sings which  they  still  possess;  and  chiefly  may  they 
rejoice,  with  consolation,  in  the  day  and  means  of 
grace.  Help  them,  we  beseech  thee,  O  God,  and 
help  us  all  to  make  suitable  improvement  from  this 
mournful  event ;  to  see  the  vanity  of  earthly  hopes, 
and  the  uncertainty  of  terrestrial  things.  What, 
Lord,  is  our  hope  1  Truly  our  hope  is  in  thee.  And 
having  this  hope,  may  we  purify  ourselves,  even  as 
thou  art  pure.  May  we  live  to  thy  glory  in  this 
world,  and  finally,  by  thy  mercy,  obtain  everlast- 
ing life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord,  to  whom, 
with  thee  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all  honor  and 
glory,  world  without  end.  Amen. 

Instead  of  the  above  Prayers,  which  follow  the  Lesson,  or  any  of  them, 
may  be  selected  such  Collects  from  the  Prayer  Book  as  shall  be  thought 
more  suitable. 

The  Sermon  or  Exhortation,  if  there  be  one  at  the  time,  may  herf 
follow. 

21  P 


242  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Public  Thanksgiving. 

The  Service  may  be  concluded  withlke  following  Prayer  and  Blet- 
ting: 

O  God,  whose  days  are  without  end,  and  whose 
mercies  cannot  be  numbered,  make  us,  we  beseech 
thee,  deeply  sensible  of  the  shortness  and  uncer- 
tainty of  human  life,  and  let  thy  Holy  Spirit  lead 
us  through  this  vale  of  misery  in  holiness  and 
righteousness  all  the  days  of  our  lives ;  that  when 
we  shall  have  served  thee  in  our  generation,  we 
may  be  gathered  unto  our  fathers,  having  the  testi- 
mony of  a  good  conscience ;  in  the  communion  of 
thy  holy  church ;  in  the  confidence  of  a  certain 
faith ;  in  the  comfort  of  a  reasonable,  religious,  and 
steadfast  hope ;  in  favor  with  thee  our  God,  and  in 
perfect  charity  with  all  the  world.  All  which  we 
ask  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

The  blessing  of  God  Almighty,  the  Father,  the 
Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  amongst  you,  and  re- 
main with  you  always.  Amen. 

When  it  is  not  convenient  to  carry  the  corpse  into  a  church,  the  above 
Service  may  be  used  in  a  private  dwelling -house,  or  other  building. 


Public  Thanksgiving. 

In  addition  to  the  Form  of  Prayer  and  Thanksgiving  to  Almighty  God 
for  the  Fruits  of  the  Earth,  &c.  the  following  Prayer  may  be  used,  at  the 
discretion  of  the  minister. 

ADORABLE  and  everlivingGod,  who  art  the  Author 
and  Giver  of  all  good  things  ;  who  visitest  the  earth 
and  blessest  it,  making  it  very  plenteous;  who 
sendest  rain  into  the  valleys,  makest  the  grass  to 
grow  upon  the  mountains,  and  crownest  the  year 
with  thy  goodness,  thou  art  the  God  of  all  the  earth ; 
all  creatures  wait  upon  thee  that  thou  mayst  give 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  243 

Public  Thanksgiving. 

them  their  meat  in  du£lseason.  We  would  praise 
thee,  O  Lord,  for  thy  unbounded  goodness,  and  de- 
clare the  wonders  which  thou  dost  for  the  children 
of  men.  Our  fathers  hoped  in  thee ;  they  trusted 
in  thee,  and  thou  didst  deliver  them.  We  thank 
thee,  O  God,  for  the  good  land  which  thou  gavest 
to  them  and  to  us,  their  children,  and  for  blessings 
unnumbered,  both  temporal  and  spiritual,  which, 
through  thy  patient  goodness,  we  still  enjoy.  Thou, 
O  God,  hast  proved  us  ;  thou  didst  remember  us  in 
our  low  estate,  and  redeemedst  us  from  our  enemies. 
Thou  givest  peace  in  our  borders,  and  blessest  our 
labors  with  increase.  We  yield  thee  thanksgiving 
and  praise  for  thy  great  and  manifold  blessings 
vouchsafed  to  the  government  and  people  of  these 
United  States ;  that  we  have  the  enjoyment  of  civil 
and  religious  liberty,  and  are  protected  by  the  ad- 
ministration of  just  and  equal  laws.  Grant  that  a 
sense  of  thy  goodness  to  us  and  to  our  country  may 
engage  our  hearts  and  lives  in  thy  service.  Give 
wisdom,  and  strength,  and  union  to  our  public 
councils.  Bless  the  governor  and  other  rulers  of  this 
state,  and  all  who  are  in  authority  over  us.  Bless 
our  churches,  and  all  our  religious  institutions. 
May  the  gospel  spread,  and  godliness  more  and 
more  prevail ;  and  may  all  who  profess  the  faith  of 
Christ  walk  worthy  of  their  vocation.  We  pray 
that  the  blessings  of  that  liberty  wherewith  Christ 
has  made  us  free,  may  be  extended  and  preserved 
among  all  people.  Enlarge  the  borders  of  the  Re- 
deemer's kingdom,  till  all  the  ends  of  the  earth 
shall  rejoice  in  his  salvation.  Increase  and  multiply 
upon  us  thy  mercy,  that,  thou  being  our  Ruler  and 
Guide,  we  may  so  pass  through  things  temporal, 
that  finally  we  lose  not  the  things  eternal.  These 
things,  and  whatever  else  thou  seest  to  be  good  for 
us  and  our  country,  and  for  all  the  people  and 
nations  of  the  earth,  we  ask,  through  the  merits  and 


244  GRIS  WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Public  Thanksgiving. 

mediation  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed   Lord  and 
Savior.     Amen. 


Another,  which  may  be  used  after  the  Sermon. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  who  art  the  Giver 
of  all  good,  grant,  we  beseech  thee,  that  the  words 
which  we  have  now  heard,  and  the  occasion  on 
which  we  are  permitted  at  this  time  to  meet  toge- 
ther, may,  through  thy  grace,  awaken  in  our  minds 
a  thankful  sense  of  thy  great  goodness.  Accept 
our  repeated  thanks  for  the  goodly  heritage  which 
thy  bounty  has  bestowed  upon  us ;  for  the  civil 
and  religious  privileges  which  we  enjoy,  and  for 
all  the  benefits  still  continued  to  this  our  favored 
country.  We  thankfully  acknowledge  that  it  is  of 
thy  goodness  that  these  United  States  have  been 
preserved  through  many  perils,  and  advanced  in 
prosperity  to  an  honorable  name  among  the  nations 
of  the  earth.  We  praise  thee  for  the  many  bles- 
sings vouchsafed  to  us,  and  to  the  people  of  this 
state  in  which  we  live,  during  the  year  which  is 
now  drawing  towards  an  end.  May  a  deep  and 
permanent  sense  of  thy  goodness  engage  our  hearts 
and  lives  in  thy  fear  and  service.  Help  us  to  enjoy 
the  bounty  which  thy  hand  bestows,  with  tempe- 
rance, and  sobriety,  and  with  thankfulness  to  thee. 
Bless,  O  Lord,  our  churches,  and  all  our  religious 
institutions,  and  enlarge  the  borders  of  the  Re- 
deemer's kingdom  till  all  the  ends  of  the  earth  shall 
see  and  rejoice  in  thy  salvation.  We  present  these 
our  thankful  offerings  in  the  name,  and  through 
the  merits,  of  our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ ; 
to  whom,  with  thee  and  the  Divine  Spirit,  be  ren- 
dered unceasing  praise.  Amen. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  245 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  on  the  Fourth  Day  of  July. 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  on  the  Fourth  Day  of  July. 

O  HOLY,  righteous,  and  immortal  God,  King  of 
kings  and  Lord  of  lords,  who  dost,  from  thy  hea- 
venly throne,  behold  and  govern  all  the  people  and 
kingdoms  of  this  lower  world,  thou  art  a  strong 
tower  and  defence  to  those  who  fear  and  trust  in 
thee ;  thou  art  the  Giver  of  all  good,  and  the  only 
hope  of  all  the  ends  of  the  earth.  With  humble 
adoration  we  would  lift  our  heart  and  voice  to  thee, 
inpraiste  and  prayer.  We  adore  thee  as  the  God  in 
whom  our  fathers  trusted ;  as  the  God  whose  holy, 
protecting  arm  has  preserved  the  people  of  these 
United  States  through  many  and  great  perils ;  has 
distinguished  them  by  unnumbered  blessings,  and 
given  them  a  great  name  among  the  nations  of  the 
earth.  We  praise  thee  for  the  dispensations  of  thy 
bountiful  hand,  and  for  all  thy  goodness  vouchsafed 
to  us  thy  favored  people.  Through  thy  blessing, 
and  because  thy  compassions  fail  not,  we  are 
brought  again  to  behold  this  anniversary  of  our 
national  Independence.  May  its  return  call  to  our 
remembrance  thy  mercies,  which  have  ever  been  of 
old ;  arid  may  we  be  sensible  that  not  for  our  own 
righteousness,  or  the  uprightness  of  our  own  heart, 
hast  thou  brought  us  in  to  possess  this  good  land  ; 
nor  has  the  might  of  our  own  arm  given  us  victory 
in  battle.  Not  unto  us,  O  Lord,  not  unto  us,  but 
unto  thy  name  be  the  praise,  for  thy  mercy,  and  for 
thy  truth's  sake.  Grant  unto  us,  we  beseech  thee, 
such  sense  of  thy  blessings  to  us,  and  to  the  people 
of  our  country,  that  our  hearts  may  be  unfeignedly 
thankful,  and  our  lives  be  devoted  to  thee.  And 
we  pray,  O  God,  that  we  and  our  country  may  still 
be  under  thy  holy  care  and  protection.  Be  thou 
our  shield  and  our  buckler,  that  we,  surely  trusting 


246  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  on  the  Fourth  Day  of  July. 

in  thy  defence,  may  not  fear  the  power  of  any  ad- 
versaries. We  beseech  thee  to  continue  thy  merci- 
ful goodness  to  us  and  to  our  country.  Give  wis- 
dom, and  strength,  and  union  to  the  government 
and  people  of  these  United  States,  and  this  state 
especially  in  which  we  live.  Bless  all  who  are  set 
in  authority  over  us,  and  so  enlighten  their  minds, 
direct  their  counsels,  and  strengthen  their  hands, 
that  righteousness  and  peace  may  4 well  in  our  land. 
May  they  who  are  appointed  to  give  laws,  and  to 
execute  them,  be  endued  with  wisdom  and  equity, 
and  a  just  regard  to  the  public  good,  that,  through 
their  impartial  ministrations,  peace  and  happiness, 
truth  and  justice,  religion  and  piety  may  increase, 
and  the  safety  and  welfare  of  thy  people  be  promot- 
ed. Grant,  O  Lord,  that  a  deep  sense  of  thy  pro- 
vidential care  may  preserve  us  from  pride  and  self- 
dependence.  While  we  are  thankful  for  the  great 
blessings  of  civil  liberty  and  political  independence, 
may  we  be  preserved  from  a  trust  in  ourselves,  and 
from  all  vain  confidence  of  boasting.  May  we 
never  forget  who  it  is  that  makes  us  to  differ  from 
others,  nor  use  our  liberty  for  a  cloak  of  malicious- 
ness ;  but  follow  after  charity,  and  the  things  which 
make  for  peace.  Much  reason  have  we  to  fear  that 
the  sins  which  prevail  in  our  country,  and  our  un- 
grateful returns  for  thy  unnumbered  mercies,  should 
provoke  thy  indignation,  and  call  thy  judgments 
upon  us.  We  beseech  thee  mercifully  to  look  upon 
our  infirmities,  and  turn  from  us  the  evils  which 
we  justly  have  deserved.  Preserve  us,  O  Lord, 
from  desolating  judgments ;  from  selfishness,  dis- 
cord, and  contention.  O  grant,  we  beseech  thee, 
that  we  may  be  united  and  happy;  ever  rejoicing  in 
thy  holy  protection.  And  wilt  thou,  O  Lord,  be  merci- 
ful to  those  who  need  the  blessings  which  we  enjoy. 
May  light  and  liberty,  and  pure  and  undefined  reli- 
gion, be  more  and  more  extended,  till  all  the  nations 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  247 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  the  Beginning  or  Close  of  a  Year. 

of  the  earth  shall  rejoice  in  thee  their  God.  And 
may  all  who  shall  assemble  on  occasion  of  this  an- 
niversary, be  duly  sensible  from  whom  our  bles- 
sings flow.  Help  us  to  enjoy  the  bounty  which  thy 
hand  bestows,  with  temperance  and  sobriety,  and 
in  thy  faith  and  fear.  May  this  day  be  so  celebrat- 
ed as  not  to  increase  the  sins  of  the  nation ;  but 
rather,  through  thy  blessing,  be  so  observed  as  to 
diffuse  the  comforts  of  rational  freedom,  social  affec- 
tions, and  pious  gratitude  throughout  the  communi- 
ty. Extend  thy  blessing  to  our  churches ;  to  our 
religious  institutions,  and  to  all  our  efforts  to  spread 
the  knowledge  of  Christ,  and  the  comforts  of  his 
gospel.  May  thy  kingdom  come,  and  thy  will  be 
done  on  earth,  as  it  is  in  heaven.  May  the  days 
come  quickly,  when  the  mountain  of  the  Lord's 
house  shall  be  established  in  the  top  of  the  moun- 
tains, and  be  exalted  above  the  hills,  and  all  nations 
flow  unto  it ;  when  the  Redeemer's  kingdom  shall 
overspread  the  earth,  and  all  the  ends  of  the  world 
shall  see  and  rejoice  in  the  salvation  of  our  God. 
We  ask  these  things  in  the  name  and  through  the 
merits  of  our  Lord  and  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  on  occasion  of  the  Close  of  a  Year,  or  the 
Commencement  of  a  New  Year. 

ALMIGHTY  and  immortal  God,  whose  mercies  are 
like  thy  years,  unnumbered,  we,  thy  dependent 
creatures,  humbly  adore  thee  for  thy  manifold  good- 
ness to  us,  and  to  all  the  children  of  men.  Awaken 
in  our  hearts  a  thankful  sense  of  thy  forbearing 
mercy  in  preserving  our  lives  through  the  dangers, 
and  all  the  changes  and  trials  of  another  year  of 
fleeting  time.  We  acknowledge  thee  as  the  Lord 
of  our  life,  by  whom  we  escape  death,  and  that  it 


248  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  at  the  B^e««"?F"g  or  Close  of  a  Year. 

is  of  thy  mercy  that  we  are  not  consumed.  As  the 
years  of  our  life  are  passing  away,  help  us,  we 
beseech  thee,  so  to  number  our  days,  so  to  es- 
timate the  shortness  and  uncertainty  of  life,  that 
we  may  apply  our  hearts  to  the  wisdom  which  is 
from  above;  that  we  may  know  thy  truth,  and  do 
thy  will.  Pardon,  O  Lord,  our  many  sins  and 
transgressions,  during  the  time  which  is  passed  and 
gone.  Who  can  tell  how  oft  he  offendeth  :  cleanse 
us,  we  beseech  thee,  from  all  our  secret  faults,  and 
preserve  us  from  presumptuous  sins;  let  them 
not  have  dominion  over  us.  Lead^  us  not  into 
temptation  ;  but  deliver  us  from  evil.*  Thou  hast 
made  our  days  but  as  a  span,  and  our  age  is  as 
nothing  in  respect  of  thee.  A  thousand  years  in 
thy  sight  are  but  as  yesterday.  The  heavens, 
which  are  the  works  of  thy  hands,  shall  perish : 
but  thou  remainest  ever  the  same,  and  thy  years 
fail  not.  Give  us  grace  to  redeem  the  time ;  to  use 
the  world  as  not  abusing  it,  and  to  be  always  ready 
to  leave  this  world  at  any  day  or  hour  in  which  the 
Lord  our  God  shall  call  us.  Make  us  more  sensible 
that  in  the  midst  of  life  we  are  in  death  ;  that  we 
have  no  Savior  in  heaven  but  thee,  and  that  there 
is  none  on  earth  that  we  can  reasonably  desire  in 
comparison  of  thee.  May  we  not  be  so  careful  and 
troubled  about  the  things  of  this  world,  as  to  forget 
or  neglect  that  which  is  most  needful.  May  we 
choose  that  good  part  which  shall  not  be  taken  from 
us.  Make  us,  O  our  God,  duly  thankful  for  all  the 
favors  bestowed  upon  us  from  our  earliest  infancy 
to  this  present  hour,  and  especially  for  the  many 
and  great  blessings  which  are  still  continued  to  us. 
Make  us  sensible  how  often  and  how  much  we 
have  abused  thy  favors,  and  how  unfruitful  of  good 
works  our  lives  have  been.  O  may  we  not  be  cut 
down  as  cumberers  of  the  ground  ;  but,  for  the  sake 
of  our  blessed  Savior,  Jesus  Christ,  be  spared  an- 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  249 

Prayer  for  a  New  Year. 

other  year,  and  have  grace  to  show  our  thankful- 
ness with  our  lips  and  in  our  lives,  by  a  holy  and 
obedient  walking  before  thee.  Support  us,  O  our 
heavenly  Father,  in  all  the  trials  of  life  which 
await  us.  In  seasons  of  prosperity  may  we  be 
thankful  and  humble ;  in  adversity,  patient  and  re- 
signed. As  times  and  seasons  to  us  are  renewed, 
may  our  hearts  be  also  renewed  and  created  again 
unto  good  works. 

And  wilt  thou,  O  Lord,  revive  thy  work  in  the 
midst  of  the  years.  Extend,  we  beseech  thee,  the 
light  of  thy  truth  to  those  who  are  sitting  in  spirit- 
ual darkness  and  in  the  shadow  of  death.  Be  mer- 
ciful to  those  who  are  living  without  God  in  the 
world,  or  any  sure  hope  of  immortal  blessedness, 
spending  their  days  and  their  years  in  vanity  and 
sin.  Bless  thy  word  wherever  it  is  spoken,  and 
send  it  to  those  places  where  it  is  not  heard. 

Assist  us  mercifully,  O  Lord,  in  these  our  suppli- 
cations and  prayers,  and  dispose  our  ways  towards 
the  attainment  of  everlasting  salvation,  that,  among 
all  the  changes  and  perils  of  this  mortal  state,  we 
may  ever  be  defended  by  thy  most  gracious  and 
ready  help.  May  we  labor  faithfully  in  doing  those 
good  works  which  thou  hast  ordained  for  us  to 
walk  in,  before  that  night  cometh  in  which  no  man 
can  work.  We  ask  these  things  in  the  name  and 
through  the  mediation  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed 
Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


For  a  New  Year. 


O  HOLY,  just,  and  almighty  God,  whose  days  are 
without  end,  and  whose  mercies  cannot  be  number- 
ed, we  bless  thee  for  thy  patient  goodness  to  us,  thy 
unworthy  creatures.  We  adore  thee  for  thy  creat- 


250  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Prayer  for  a  New  Year. 

ing  power  which  called  us  from  dust  and  darkness 
into  life  and  being.  Awaken  in  our  hearts  a  still 
more  thankful  sense  of  thy  forbearing  mercy,  in 
prolonging  our  lives  from  day  to  day,  and  from  year 
to  year ;  and  especially  for  thy  preservation,  and 
blessings  bestowed  upon  us  during  the  perils  and 
changes  of  the  last  year,  now  passed  and  gone ;  and 
that  thou  art  still  giving  us  time  and  opportunity  to 
amend  our  lives,  and  prepare  for  our  eternal  state. 
Teach  us,  we  beseech  thee,  so  to  number  our  days 
and  estimate  thy  goodness,  that  we  may  apply  our 
hearts  unto  true  wisdom ;  that  we  may  better  know 
thy  truth,  and  more  faithfully  do  thy  will.  Should 
it  be,  O  gracious  Father,  thy  good  pleasure  that  our 
days  may  still  be  prolonged  on  the  earth,  and  thou 
shalt  let  us  continue  this  year  also,  may  our  hearts 
and  lives  be  devoted  to  thee,  in  a  sober,  righteous 
and  godly  living.  While  days,  and  weeks,  and 
years  are  so  continued  to  us,  may  our  love  to  thee 
increase,  and  may  we  manifest  our  thankfulness 
by  doing  all  those  good  works  which  thou  hast 
ordained  for  us  to  walk  in.  May  it  be  our  endeavor 
and  delight  to  do  good  unto  all  men,  especially  unto 
them  who  are  of  the  household  of  faith.  May  we 
remember  the  words  of  the  Lord  Jesus,  how  he  said, 
It  is  more  blessed  to  give  than  to  receive;  and 
rejoice  to  follow  the  steps  of  him  who  went  about 
doing  good.  Enlarge  our  hearts  with  compassion 
for  the  sons  and  daughters  of  sorrow  ;  and,  accord- 
ing as  we  have  opportunity  and  power,  may  we  be 
ready  to  give,  and  glad  to  distribute,  and  to  offer 
that  sacrifice  with  which  thou  art  well  pleased. 
Assist  us  mercifully,  O  Lord,  in  all  we  do,  with  thy 
most  gracious  favor,  and  dispose  our  hearts  and  our 
ways  towards  the  attainment  of  everlasting  salva- 
tion, that  among  all  the  changes  and  trials  of  this 
mortal  life,  we  may  ever  be  defended  by  thy  most 
gracious  and  ready  help ;  and  when  days  and  years 


GRISWOLB'S  PRAYERS.  251 

Prayers  that  may  be  used  at  the  Closing  of  a  Convention. 

with  us  shall  end,  and  time  shall  be  no  longer,  may 
we  be  received  into  those  realms  of  life  eternal, 
where  sorrows  shall  cease,  and  prayer  shall  be  chang- 
ed to  endless  praise.  Grant  this,  O  merciful  God, 
through  Him,  who  is  the  resurrection  and  the  life, 
thy  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


Prayers  that  may  be  used  at  the  Closing  of  a  Convention. 

O  GOD,  whose  never-failing  providence  ordereth 
all  things  in  heaven  and  on  earth,  and  who  dost 
ever  help  and  govern  those  whom  thou  dost  bring 
up  in  thy  steadfast  fear  and  love,  keep  us,  we  be- 
seech thee,  under  thy  holy  care  and  protection,  and 
make  us  to  have  a  perpetual  fear  and  love  of  thy 
holy  name.  Grant  us  the  help  of  thy  grace,  that, 
in  keeping  thy  commandments,  we  may  please  thee 
in  will  and  deed.  May  we  love  the  things  which 
thou  commandest,  and  desire  those  which  thou  dost 
promise ;  and  among  the  sundry  and  manifold 
changes  of  this  world,  may  our  hearts  be  surely 
fixed  where  true  joys  are  to  be  found,  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord.  Amen. 

Almighty  and  everlasting  God,  by  whose  Spirit 
the  whole  body  of  the  church  is  governed  and  sanc- 
tified, receive  our  supplications  and  prayers  for  all 
estates  of  men  in  thy  holy  church,  that  every  mem- 
ber of  it,  in  his  vocation  and  ministry,  may  truly 
and  godly  serve  thee.  Send  down  upon  our  bishops 
and  other  clergy,  and  upon  the  congregations  com- 
mitted to  their  charge,  the  healthful  spirit  of  thy 
grace ;  and,  that  they  may  truly  please  thee,  pour 
upon  them  the  continual  dew  of  thy  blessing.  We 
beseech  thee  to  inspire  continually  the  universal 
church  with  the  spirit  of  truth,  unity,  and  concord; 


252  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

Prayers  that  may  be  used  at  the  Closing  of  a  Convention. 

and  grant  that  all  they  who  do  confess  thy  holy 
name  may  agree  in  the  truth  of  thy  holy  word, 
and  live  in  unity  and  godly  love.  And  grant,  O 
Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  th  at  the  course  of  this  world 
may  be  so  peaceably  ordered  by  thy  governance, 
that  thy  church  may  joyfully  serve  thee  in  all 
godly  quietness,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord. 
Amen. 

We  yield  thee  humble  and  hearty  thanks,  O  hea- 
venly Father,  for  thy  merciful  goodness  to  us  and 
to  all  men.  We  bless  thee  for  thine  inestimable 
love  in  the  redemption  of  the  world  by  our  Lord 
Jesus  Christ ;  for  the  preaching  of  his  gospel ;  the 
establishment  of  his  church ;  the  means  of  grace, 
and  the  hope  of  glory.  We  render  thee  our  thanks 
and  adoration  for  thy  blessings  bestowed  upon  the 
churches  and  congregations  of  thy  people  with 
whom  we  are  more  particularly  connected.  We 
bless  thee  that  we  have  been  permitted,  as  the 
council  of  those  churches,  to  assemble  here  in  thy 
name  and  presence ;  we  give  thee  thanks  for  the 
harmony  that  has  prevailed  during  our  delibera- 
tions, and  the  brotherly  intercourse  which  we  have 
enjoyed.  Give  us,  we  beseech  thee,  that  due  sense 
of  these  and  all  thy  mercies,  that  our  hearts  may  be 
duly  thankful,  and  that  we  may  show  forth  thy 
praise,  by  a  holy  obedience  to  thy  holy  will,  through 
Jesus  Christ  our  Lord;  to  whom,  with  thee  and 
the  Holy  Ghost,  be  all  honor  and  glory,  world  with- 
out end.  Amen. 

The  peace  of  God,  which  passeth  all  understand- 
ing, keep  your  hearts  and  minds  in  the  knowledge 
and  love  of  God,  and  of  his  Son,  Jesus  Christ  our 
Lord ;  and  the  blessing  of  God  Almighty,  the 
Father,  the  Son,  and  the  Holy  Ghost,  be  amongst 
you,  and  remain  with  you  always.  Amen. 


GRIS^rOLD's    PRAYERS.  253 

A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  after  an  Evening  Lecture. 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  after  au  Evening  Lecture. 

ALMIGHTY  and  everliving  God,  who  art  the  Author 
and  Giver  of  all  good,  we  humbly  and  thankfully 
acknowledge  thy  manifold  mercies  to  thy  sinful 
creatures.  We  bless  thee  for  the  benefits  which 
we  have  received  during  the  day  past,  and  for  the 
favor  of  this  opportunity  of  worshipping  in  thy 
house.  Pardon,  we  beseech  thee,  the  sins  that  we 
may  have  committed  in  thy  presence.  Accept  the 
prayers  and  thanksgivings  which  we  have  offered 
before  thee.  Forgive  us  wherein  we  have  asked 
amiss.  Grant  that  what  has  been  faithfully  asked, 
according  to  thy  will,  may  effectually  be  obtained, 
to  the  supplying  of  what  we  need,  and  to  the  pro- 
motion of  thy  glory  and  praise.  Grant,  O  Lord, 
that  what  has  been  read  this  evening  from  thy 
word,  and  what  has  been  spoken  according  to  thy 
will,  may  be  to  all  who  have  heard  it  a  savor  of 
life  unto  life;  may  it  be  so  impressed  upon  our 
hearts  as  to  establish,  strengthen,  and  settle  us  in 
the  faith  of  Jesus  Christ,  and  bring  forth  in  us  the 
fruit  of  righteousness  and  peace.  We  pray  that 
thy  good  Spirit  may  go  with  us  to  our  respective 
dwellings;  may  thy  kind,  protecting  Providence 
watch  over  us  whilst  we  sleep ;  preserve  us  through 
the  silent  watches  of  the  night,  and  fit  us  for  the 
duties  of  the  following  day.  And  whilst  our  lives 
are  prolonged  upon  the  earth,  take  us,  we  beseech 
thee,  ®  heavenly  Father,  and  all  that  is  near  and 
dear  to  us,  under  thy  holy  care  and  keeping.  Di- 
rect our  steps  in  the  paths  of  righteousness  and 
peace,  and  dispose  all  our  ways  towards  the  attain- 
ment of  everlasting  salvation,  that  we  may  live  to 
thy  glory  in  this  world,  and  in  the  world  to  come 
22 


254  GRISWOLD'S  PRAY!: 


A  Prayer  that  may  be  used  after  aLecture. 


enjoy  eternal  life,  through  Jesus  Christ  our  Lord. 
A  men. 


Another  Prayer  which  may  be  used  after  a  Lecture. 

GRANT,  we  beseech  thee,  Almighty  God,  that 
what  has  now  been  spoken  according  to  thy  word 
and  will,  may  be  grafted  in  our  hearts,  and  fruitful 
in  our  lives.  Pardon  us  wherein  we  have  spoken 
or  heard  amiss,  and  direct  our  desires  and  dispose 
our  ways  towards  the  attainment  of  everlasting 
salvation.  And  grant,  O  Lord,  that  by  the  opera- 
tion of  the  Holy  Ghost,  all  Christians  may  be  so 
joined  together  in  unity  of  spirit,  and  in  the  bond  of 
peace,  that  they  may  be  a  holy  temple  acceptable 
unto  thee.  And  especially  to  this  congregation, 
and  to  those  who  worship  thee  in  this  house,  give 
the  abundance  of  thy  grace,  that  with  one  heart 
they  may  desire  the  prosperity  of  thy  holy  apostolic 
church,  and  strive  together  for  the  faith  of  the  gos- 
pel which  was  once  delivered  to  the  saints.  O 
thou  blessed  Spirit  of  the  living  God,  Sanetifier  of 
the  faithful,  dwell  in  their,  hearts  with  thy  love  and 
favor.  Defend  them  from  error,  heresy,  and  pride. 
Enlighten  their  minds  with  the  truth  of  thy  word ; 
graft  in  their  hearts  the  love  of  thy  name ;  increase 
in  them  true  religion ;  nourish  them  with  all  good- 
ness ;  and  of  thy  great  mercy^keep  them  steadfast 
in  the  ways  of  thy  laws,  and  in  the  works  of  thy 
commandments.  'And  grant,  we  beseech  thje,  that 
the  course  of  this  world  may  be  so  peaceably  or- 
dered by  thy  governance  that  we,  and  all  thy  peo- 
ple, may  serve  thee  in  godly  quietness ;  that  we 
may  walk  in  the  ways  of  truth  and  peace,  and  at 
last  be  numbered  with  thy  saints  in  glory,  through 


GUIS  WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  255 

A  general  Prayer  for  Mariners  and  People  at  Sea. 

the  merits  of  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed  Lord  and 
Savior.     Amen. 


A  general  Prayer  for  Mariners  and  People  at  Sea. 

O  ETERNAL  God,  the  Creator  and  Preserver  of  all 
mankind,  who  art  glorious  in  power,  and  of  majes- 
ty incomprehensible,  we  adore  thee  as  the  King  of 
kings  and  the  Lord  of  lords.  By  thy  word  were 
the  heavens  made,  and  all  their  host  by  the  breath 
of  thy  mouth.  Thou  gavest  to  the  sea  thy  decree, 
that  the  waters  should  obey  thy  commandment. 
Thou,  O  God,  art  the  confidence  of  all  the  ends  of 
the  earth,  and  of  them  who  are  afar  off  upon  the 
sea.  We  humbly  ask  for  thy  blessing  upon  our- 
selves, and  upon  all  for  whom  we  ought  to  pray, 
and  especially  upon  them  who  go  down  to  the  sea 
in  ships,  and  do  business  upon  the  great  waters  of 
the  ocean.  They  see  thy  works  and  thy  wonders 
in  the, deep.  At  thy  command  the  stormy  winds 
arise,  and  the  floods  lift  up  their  voice.  The  waves 
of  the  sea  are  mighty ;  they  rage  and  swell ;  but 
thou,  Lord,  who  dwellest  on  high,  art  mightier. 
Thou  rulest  the  raging  of  the  deep,  and  when  its 
waves  arise  thou  stillest  them.  We  humbly  im- 
plore thy  blessing  and  providential  care  for  all  who 
are  exposed  to  the  perils  of  the  ocean,  and  are  borne 
upon  its  mighty  waves.  Give  them,  we  beseech 
thee,  a  lively  sense  of  thy  providential  care,  and  of 
the  wonders  which  thou  dost  for  the  children  of 
men.  Help  them  to  know  thy  unspeakable  love  in 
the  redemption  of  mankind  by  Jesus  Christ.  At  all 
times,  and  in  every  peril  and  distress,  may  they  look 
unto  thee,  as  the  Lord  God  of  their  salvation,  who 
spreadest  out  the  heavens,  and  rulest  the  raging  of 
the  sea,  and  art  a  present  help  in  every  time  of  need. 


256  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Thanksgiving  for  Escape  from  great  Danger  at  Sea. 

Grant  them  a  pious  trust  in  thy  kind  protecting 
providence.  While  we  in  greater  safety  enjoy  thy 
blessings  on  these  peaceful  shores,  may  we  feel  for 
those  who  are  deprived  of  the  privileges  of  thy 
house  and  sanctuary.  O  hear  our  prayers  for 
them,  who  for  the  mutual  benefit  of  distant  climes, 
and  to  multiply  the  blessings  of  life,  encounter  the 
perils  of  the  sea.  In  storms  and  tempests ;  in  every 
danger  and  all  distress,  be  thou  their  help  and 
comfort.  Preserve  them  from  sickness ;  from  ship- 
wreck; from  the  violence  of  enemies,  and  from 
every  evil  to  which  they  be  exposed.  Prosper  them 
in  the  business  and  the  occupation  in  which  they 
may  be  engaged.  Conduct  them  in  safety  to  the 
countries  and  havens  where  they  desire  to  be ;  and 
in  thy  good  time  conduct  them  to  their  homes,  their 
families  and  friends,  in  prosperity  and  peace ;  and 
dispose  them,  we  beseech  thee,  to  be  thankful  for 
thy  goodness,  and  to  live  to  thy  praise.  These 
things,  O  heavenly  Father,  and  whatever  thou  shalt 
see  to  be  necessary  or  convenient  for  their  present 
happiness  and  their  eternal  good,  we  humbly  ask 
in  the  name  and  through  the  mediation  of  Jesus 
Christ,  our  blessed  Lord  and  Savior.  Amen. 


A  Thanksgiving  for  Escape  from  great  Danger  at  Sea. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  whose  mercy  is 
over  all  thy  works,  we  adore  thee  for  thy  manifold 
goodness  to  the  sons  of  men.  Thou  boldest  our 
soul  in  life,  and  sufferest  not  our  feet  to  slip.  Thou 
hast  shut  up  the  sea  within  its  bounds,  and  said, 
Hitherto  shalt  thou  come,  but  no  farther,  and  here 
shall  thy  proud  waves  be  staid.  They  who  sail 
upon  the  waters  of  the  ocean  see  thy  glorious 
works,  and  thy  wonders  in  the  deep.  At  thy  com- 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  257 

A  Thanksgiving  for  Escape  from  great  Danger  at  Sea. 

mand  the  stormy  winds  arise,  which  lift  up  mighty 
waves,  and  fill  the  hearts  of  men  with  fear.  But 
when  they  cry  unto  thee  in  their  trouble,  thou 
bringest  them  out  of  their  distress :  thou  makest  the 
storm  to  cease  so  that  the  waves  of  the  sea  are  still. 
Then  are  they  glad,  because  they  are  at  rest,  and 
thou,  in  the  plenitude  of  thy  mercy,  bringest  them 
unto  the  haven  where  they  would  be.  Help  us,  O 
Lord,  to  praise  thee  for  thy  goodness,  and  for  all 
the  wonders  thou  dost  for  the  children  of  men. 

We  desire,  O  Lord,  especially  to  render  thee  our 
humble  thanks  and  praise  for  conducting  in  safety 
through  the  perils  of  the  sea  thy  servant,  who  de- 
sires now  in  the  presence  of  thy  people  to  adore 
thee  for  thy  merciful  goodness  in  preserving  him 
from  perishing.  When  surrounded  with  terrors, 
dangers,  and  death,  thou  didst  deliver  him  from  a 
watery  grave :  thou  didst  say  to  the  winds,  Peace ; 
be  still,  and  there  was  a  great  calm.  Many  have 
perished  in  the  ocean,  and  sunk  amidst  the  waters 
of  the  deep,  while,  through  thy  great  goodness,  this 
thy  servant  has  been  rescued  from  impending  death ; 
preserved  through  the  toils  and  dangers  of  the  sea, 
and  restored  to  safety  and  peace.  Accept,  O  mer- 
ciful God,  his  humble  offering  of  thankfulness  and 
praise ;  and  give  him  grace  to  manifest  his  sense 
of  thy  goodness,  by  a  steadfast  reliance  upon  thy 
providential  care,  and  by  devoting  himself  to  thy 
service  in  a  holy  obedience  to  thy  laws,  through 
Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord  arid  Savior.  Amen. 
22*  Q 


258  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  God's  Grace  and  Protection  that  may  be  used  daily. 


Prayers  which  may  be  used  at  Sea  when  the  regular  public  service  ii  not 
performed. 

A  Prayer  for  God's  Grace  and  Protection,  that  may  be  used  daily. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  who  art  always 
more  ready  to  hear  than  we  to  pray,  we  look  unto 
thee  as  the  hope  of  all  the  ends  of  the  earth,  and  of 
them  who  remain  upon  the  broad  sea.  Thou 'in 
thy  strength  settest  fast  the  mountains ;  thou  stillest 
the  raging  of  the  sea,  and  the  noise  of  his  waves, 
and  the  madness  of  the  people ;  by  thy  righteous 
providence  thou  dost  govern  all  things  in  heaven 
and  on  earth.  We  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  to  behold 
with  thy  favor  and  blessing  thy  dependent,  unwor- 
thy creatures ;  to  forgive  our  sins,  and  blot  out  our 
transgressions.  Remember  not,  Lord,  our  offences ; 
but  thy  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ.  For  his  sake  hear 
our  prayers,  sanctify  our  affections,  and  renew  a 
right  spirit  within  us.  O  thou  Father  of  our  spirits, 
take  us,  we  entreat  thee,  under  the  protection  of  thy 
almighty  arm.  Preserve  us  from  the  dangers  of  the 
sea,  and  from  every  evil  to  which  we  are,  or  may 
be,  exposed.  While  we  are  wafted  by  mighty 
winds  amidst  the  waves  of  the  ocean,  be  thou  our 
Ruler  and  Guide.  In  every  danger,  and  difficulty, 
and  distress,  help  us  to  look  unto  thee  for  succor, 
and  to  put  our  trust  in  thy  providential  care.  May 
we  be  ever  mindful  of  thy  presence ;  that  thou  art 
about  our  path,  and  about  our  bed,  and  spiest  out 
all  our  ways.  There  is  not  a  word  in  our  tongue, 
nor  a  thought  in  our  heart,  but  thou,  O  Lord,  know- 
est  it  altogether.  Whither  can  we  go  from  thy 
Spirit !  If  we  take  the  wings  of  the  morning  and 
dwell  in  the  uttermost  parts  of  the  sea,  even  there 
shall  thou  lead  us,  and  thy  right  hand  shall  hold 
us.  O  be  thou  our  safeguard  and  defence.  Pre- 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  259 

A  Prayer  for  God's  Grace  and  Protection  that  may  be  used  daily. 

serve  us  from  all  undue  reliance  on  human  skill  or 
the  help  of  man.  Without  thee  nothing  is  strong, 
and  without  thy  blessing  the  labor  of  man  is  vain. 
We  desire,  O  God,  with  thankful  hearts  to  bless 
thy  holy  name  for  thy  daily  goodness  and  provi- 
dential care  from  the  commencement  of  our  lives  to 
this  present  time.  To  thy  watchful  care  we  owe  it, 
that  we  are  preserved  from  day  to  day,  and  borne 
in  safety  upon  the  mighty  waters  of  the  deep.  Give 
us  hearts  to  be  thankful  for  thy  great  goodness,  and 
give  us  grace  to  show  forth  thy  praise  by  living 
according  to  thy  word  and  will.  Help  us  to  perform 
every  duty  which  we  owe  to  thee,  and  to  our  fel- 
low-men. May  we  reverence  thy  holy  name,  and 
have  that  fear  of  the  Lord  which  is  the  beginning 
of  wisdom.  Preserve  us  from  all  presumptuous 
sins,  and  vouchsafe,*  we.  beseech  thee,  to  direct, 
sanctify  and  govern  our  hearts  and  our  bodies  in 
the  ways  of  thy  laws,  and  in  the  works  of  thy  com- 
mandments, that  through  thy  most  mighty  protec- 
tion, both  in  this  our  present  voyage,  and  through 
all  the  course  of  our  future  life,  we  may  be  pre- 
served from  sin,  and  from  all  manner  of  evil.  We 
beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  to  give  such  prosperity  and 
success  to  the  business  and  occupation  in  which  we 
are  interested  or  engaged,  as  shall  promote  thy  glory, 
and  our  own  best  good.  Give  us  grace  to  be  pru- 
dent and  upright  in  all  our  dealings,  and  to  be  faith- 
ful to  all  in  whose  business  we  are  trusted  or  em- 
ployed. To  thy  gracious  protection,  O  heavenly 
Father,  we  commit  ourselves  and  all  our  concerns. 
Direct  and  defend  us  in  all  we  do,  and  in  every 
danger.  Prepare  us  for  every  event  of  thy  provi- 
dence. As  our  days  so  may  our  strength  be.  We 
pray  thee  to  turn  from  us  the  evils  which  our  sins 
have  deserved,  and  grant  that  in  all  our  troubles 
and  difficulties  we  may  put  our  whole  trust  and 
confidence  in  thy  mercy,  and  evermore  serve  thee  in 


260  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Prayer  for  a  prosperous  Voyage,  and  for  Friends  on  Shore. 

holiness  and  pureness  of  living,  to  thy  honor  and 
glory,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  Lord  and  Savior. 
Amen. 


Another,  for  a  prosperous  Voyage,  and  for  Friends  on  Shore. 

ADORABLE  and  everliving  God,  who  alone  spread- 
est  out  the  heavens,  and  rulest  the  raging  of  the 
sea,  in  humble  adoration  we  look  unto  thee  as  the 
Author  of  our  being,  the  Giver  of  all  good,  and  the 
hope  of  all  the  ends  of  the  earth.  Unto  thee  all 
hearts  are  open,  all  desires  known,  and  from 
thee  no  secrets  are  hid.  We,  thy  sinful  creatures, 
beseech  thee  to  behold  us  in  hiercy  ;  to  forgive  our 
sins,  to  sanctify  our  hearts,  and  to  hear  with  favor 
these  our  supplications  and  prayers.  Enter  not 
into  judgment  with  thy  servants,  O  Lord  ;  for  in  thy 
sight  shall  no  man  living,  in  his  own  righteousness, 
be  justified.  We  look  unto  thee  in  the  name  and 
through  the  merits  of  thy  Son,  our  Savior  Je$tis 
Christ,  by  whom  thou  hast  graciously  taught  us  to 
ask,  that  we  may  receive ;  to  seek,  that  we  may 
find.  We  pray  thee  to  give  unto  us,  who  humbly 
ask  of  thee,  O  heavenly  Father,  thy  blessing  upon 
us  and  ours.  We  pray  thee  to  take  us,  and  all  that 
appertains  to  us,  under  thy  merciful  care  and  pro- 
tection. Preserve  us,  we  beseech  thee,  in  every 
danger:  conduct  us  in  safety  over  the  mighty  waters 
of  the  deep;  give  us  prosperity  in  our  present 
voyage,  and  enable  us  to  arrive  at  the  haven  where 
we  would  be,  with  a  thankful  sense  of  thy  provi- 
dential care. 

And  wilt  thou.  0  Lord,  in  thy  merciful  goodness, 
accept  our  prayers  for  our  families  and  friends,  from 
whom  we  now  are  absent.  Preserve  them,  we  be- 


GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  261 

A  Prayer  which  may  be  used  in  Storms,  and  other  Dangers  at  Sea. 

seech  thee,  from  sickness  arid  sorrow,  and  from 
every  evil ;  and  graciously  watch  over  them  for 
good.  Grant  that  in  thy  good  time  we  may  meet 
them  in  prosperity  and  peace,  and  with  them  unite 
in  thankful  acknowledgments  of  thy  great  good- 
ness. 

And  to  our  prayers  we  desire,  O  blessed  Lord,  to 
give  thee  humble  and  hearty  thanks  for  all  thy 
goodness  and  loving  kindness  to  us,  and  to  all  men. 
We  bless  thee  for  all  the  favors  and  benefits  which 
we  have  received  from  the  commencement  of  our 
lives  to  the  present  hour.  We  thank  thee  especially 
for  the  mercies  vouchsafed  to  us  during  the  present 
voyage.  And  we  beseech  thee  to  give  us  that  due 
sense  of  all  thy  mercies,  that  our  hearts  may  be 
unfeignedly  thankful,  and  that  we  may  show  forth 
thy  praise,  not  only  with  our  lips  but  in  our  lives, 
by  giving  up  ourselves  to  thy  service,  and  by  walk- 
ing before  thee  in  holiness  and  righteousness  all  our 
days,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our  blessed  Lord  and 
Savior.  Amen. 


A  Prayer  which  may  be  used  in  Storms,  and  other  Dangers  at  Sea: 

ALMIGHTY  and  everliving  God,  who  art  the  hope 
of  all  the  earth,  and  our  only  refuge  in  danger  and 
distress,  behold  us,  we  beseech  thee,  in  mercy,  and 
save  us,  Lord,  or  we  perish.  Remember  not,  Lord, 
our  offences,  nor  take  thou  vengeance  of  our  sins. 
O  be  merciful  unto  us,  and  save  us  for  the  sake  of 
thy  Son,  our  Savior  Jesus  Christ. 

O  thou  blessed  Jesus,  who  didst  save  thy  disci- 
ples when  ready  to  perish,  deliver  us  from  peril  and 
destruction.  The  winds  and  the  sea  obey  thee.  If 
thou  speak  the  word,  we  shall  be  delivered  from 


262  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  Form  of  Thanksgiving  at  Sea  for  Escape  from  Danger. 

fear,  and  restored  to  safety  and  peace.  Spare  us, 
good  Lord,  spare  thy  people  whom  thou  didst  die 
to  save.  O  thou  Father  of  our  spirits,  and  Giver 
of  our  lives,  forsake  us  not  in  this  perilous  hour, 
nor  leave  us  to  perish.  We  commit  ourselves,  and 
all  that  is  ours,  to  thy  almighty  protection.  Thy 
mercy,  O  Lord,  reacheth  unto  the  heavens,  and  thy 
faithfulness  unto  the  clouds.  Be  merciful  unto  us, 
O  God,  be  merciful  unto  us,  for  our  soul  trusteth  in 
thee;  in  the  shadow  of  thy  wings  we  make  our 
refuge,  until  this  calamity  be  overpast.  O  be  not 
thou  far  from  us  when  trouble  and  distress  are  near. 
Spare  us  a  little,  before  we  go  hence  and  be  no  more 
seen.  Let  our  prayer  come  before  thee,  and  incline 
thine  ear  unto  our  cry ;  for  our  soul  is  full  of  trouble, 
and  our  life  draweth  nigh  unto  the  grave.  Thou. 
O  God,  art  to  be  feared,  and  who  can  stand  when 
thou  art  angry  ?  Nothing  is  too  hard  for  thee,  nor 
is  there  any  one  who  can  deliver  out  of  thy  hands. 
Thou  art  a  strong-hold  in  the  day  of  trouble,  and 
with  thee  all  things  are  possible.  Thou  hast 
taught  us  to  call  upon  thee  in  the  day  of  trouble. 
O  deliver  us,  that  we  may  glorify  thee,  and  declare 
the  wonders  which  thou  dost  for  the  children  of 
men.  Help,  O  Lord,  we  beseech  thee,  and  deliver 
us  for  thy  mercy's  sake:  hear  our  prayers,  and 
save  us  for  the  infinite  merits  of  thy  Son,  our  Savior 
Jesus  Christ.  Amen. 


A  Form  of  Thanksgiving  at  Sea  for  Escape  from  Danger. 

ALMIGHTY  and  most  merciful  God,  who  art  the 
Giver  and  Preserver  of  our  lives,  wonderful  are  the 
works  which  thou  hast  done :  unnumbered  are  thy 
mercies  vouchsafed  to  the  sons  of  men.  Thou  art 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  263 

A  Form  of  Thanksgiving  at  Sea  for  Escape  from  Danger. 

patient  and  long-suffering,  and  in  the  midst  of  judg- 
ment rememberest  mercy.  It  is  of  thy  mercy  that 
we  are  not  consumed,  and  because  thy  compassions 
fail  not.  Thou  killest  and  makest  alive,  and  there 
is  none  who  can  deliver  out  of  thy  hand.  Thy 
name,  O  Lord,  is  excellent  in  all  the  earth,  and  thy 
glory  is  above  the  heavens :  according  to  thy  name, 
so  is  thy  praise.  Great  art  thou  in  wonders ;  there 
is  no  end  of  thy  greatness,  and  greatly  art  thou  to 
be  praised.  Thou  art  the  God  of  whom  cometh 
salvation ;  thou  art  the  Lord  by  whom  we  escape 
death.  Thou  stillest  the  raging  of  the  sea,  and  the 
noise  of  its  waves.  Thou  measurest  the  waters  in 
the  hollow  of  thy  hand,  and  hast  meted  out  heaven 
with  a  span.  Thou  sittest  upon  the  circle  of  the 
earth,  and  the  inhabitants  thereof  are  reputed  as 
nothing  in  comparison  of  thee.  Heaven  is  thy 
throne,  and  the  earth  thy  footstool.  Thy  kingdom 
is  an  everlasting  kingdom,  and  thy  dominion  en- 
dureth  throughout  all  generations.  At  thy  word 
the  stormy  winds  arise,  which  lift  up  the  waves  of 
the  sea.  filling  the  hearts  of  men  with  fear.  When 
they  cry  unto  thee  in  their  trouble,  thou  bringest 
them  out  of  their  distress  :  thou  makest  the  storm 
to  cease,  so  that  the  waves  of  the  sea  are  still. 
Then  are  they  glad  because  they  are  at  rest,  and 
thou  bringest  them  in  safety  to  the  haven  where 
they  would  be.  Then  do  they  praise  thee  for  thy 
goodness :  and  we,  O  God,  would  praise  thee  for 
that  thou  hast  heard  us  in  the  hour  of  distress,  and 
art  become  our  salvation.  Thou  art  a  God  full  of 
compassion,  and  plenteous  in  mercy.  When  we 
called  upon  thee  in  our  trouble  and  distress  thou 
wast  nigh  to  help,  and  attentive  to  our  cry.  Not 
for  our  worthiness,  but  from  thy  mercy  are  we  now 
alive  to  render  thee  our  humble  thanks  and  praise. 
When  we  were  in  misery,  thou  didst  help  us ;  when 
trouble  was  hard  upon  us,  and  all  hope  that  we 


264  GRIS WOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

A  general  Prayer  for  the  Sick. 

should  be  saved  was  taken  away,  we  found  that 
thy  almighty  arm  is  a  ready  help  in  time  of  need. 
Thou  hast  chastened  us,  but  not  given  us  over  unto 
death.  Nothing  is  too  hard  for  thee  to  effect,  nor  is 
any  thing  too  great  or  too  good  for  thee  to  bestow. 
Thou  hast  made  us  glad  through  thy  work,  and 
we  will  rejoice  in  the  operation  of  thy  hand.  We 
bless  thee,  O  God,  that  thou  didst  not  give  us  over 
unto  death.  Many  have  perished  in  the  ocean,  and 
sunk  amidst  the  waters  of  the  deep,  while  we  re- 
main among  the  living,  to  praise  thee  for  thy  good- 
ness, and  to  declare  the  wonders  that  thou  dost  for 
the  children  of  men.  Help  us,  O  Lord,  to  show 
forth  thy  praise  by  obedience  to  thy  laws ;  may  we 
ever  be  mindful  of  thy  goodness,  and  devote  to  thee, 
and  to  thy  service,  the  lives  which  thou  in  mercy 
hast  preserved.  Hear  our  prayers,  O  Lord,  and 
bless  us  for  the  sake  of  thy  Son,  our  Savior,  Jesus 
Christ,  in  whose  name  we  offer  all  our  prayers  and 
praise.  Amen. 


The  following,  through,  inadvertency,  was  omitted  in  its  proper  place. 

A  general  Prayer  for  the  Sick,  with  Collects  adapted  to  some  particular 
Occasions. 

ALMIGHTY  and  immortal  God,  who  art  the  Giver  of 
life  and  health,  and  in  whom  we  live,  and  move, 
and  have  our  being,  we  look  unto  thee  as  the  God 
of  mercy,  and  our  on]y  help  in  the  hour  of  distress. 
We  acknowledge  that  sickness,  and  pains,  and  sor- 
rows are  the  dispensations  of  thy  righteous  hand, 
and  are  less  than  our  sins  deserve.  Remember  not, 
Lord,  our  offences,  neither  take  thou  vengeance  of 
our  sins ;  but  spare  in  mercy,  those  whom  thou 


GRISWOLD  S    PRAYERS. 


A  general  Prayer  for  the  Sick. 


hast  in  love  redeemed.  Look  with  compassion 
upon  our  infirmities,  and  for  the  glory  of  thy  name 
turn  from  us  those  evils  which  our  sins  have  de- 
served. In  all  our  troubles,  and  all  the  trials  of 
life,  may  we  put  our  whole  trust  and  confidence  in 
thy  mercy. 

Thou  hast  taught  us  in  thy  word,  that  all 
things  and  all  events  are  under  the  power  and  the 
direction  of  thy  wise  and  good  providence;  that 
not  a  sparrow  falls  without  thy  permission,  and 
that  all  things  work  together  for  good  to  those  who 
love  thee,  and  are  called  according  to  thy  purpose. 
If  thou  be  for  us,  nothing  can  be  effectually  against 
us.  Give  us  grace,  we  beseech  thee,  in  all  things 
to  submit  to  thy  righteousness,  and  to  be  conformed 
to  thy  will.  If  the  cup  of  affliction  may  not,  con- 
sistently with  thy  wisdom,  pass  from  us,  be  it  not 
as  we  will,  O  God,  but  as  thou  wilt.  Grant  that 
we,  who  have  received  so  much  good  at  thy  hand, 
may  never  murmur,  nor  charge  thee  foolishly  when 
we  receive  evil.  Help  us  to  take  the  cross  and  fol- 
low Him  who  patiently  endured  the  pains  of  mor- 
tality, to  purchase  for  us  eternal  life.  Preserve  us 
from  all  faithless  desire  that  things  should  be  ac- 
cording to  our  mind.  May  we  rejoice  and  bless  thy 
holy  name,  that  our  afflictions,  which  comparatively 
are  light,  and  but  for  a  moment,  will,  if  we  are  pa- 
tiently exercised  by  them,  and  submissive  to  thy 
will,  work  in  us  a  far  more  exceeding  and  eternal 
weight  of  glory.  May  we  learn  obedience  by  the 
things  which  we  suffer,  and  know  that  it  is  good 
for  us  to  be  sometimes  afflicted. 

In  the  midst  of  life  we  are  in  death,  continually 
liable  to  calamitous  accidents  and  various  diseases. 
May  such  visitations  be  sanctified  to  our  spiritual 
and  eternal  good.  May  seasons  of  sickness,  when 
we  are  retired  from  our  worldly  occupations,  remind 
us  that  we  are  mortal,  and  be  wisely  viewed  as 
23 


266  QRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  Sleep,  and  Rest,  and  temporal  Comforts. 

gracious  opportunities  of  raising  our  thoughts  from 
the  world  to  thee ;  of  attending  to  the  concerns  of 
our  immortal  souls,  and  laying  up  treasures  which 
neither  moth  nor  rust  can  corrupt. 

We  bless  thee,  O  God,  that  in  the  midst  of  judg- 
ment thou  rememberest  mercy,  giving  ease  to  pains, 
and  mingling  many  comforts  with  the  evils  of  life ; 
that  thou  dost  not  deal  with  us  according  to  our 
sins,  nor  reward  us  according  to  our  iniquities. 
Justly  mightest  thou  reject  our  prayer,  and  take 
thy  Holy  Spirit  from  us.  But  thou  art  God,  and 
not  as  man ;  thou  art  a  refuge  to  the  needy :  a  present 
help  in  time  of  trouble. 

In  this  confidence,  we  entreat  thee,  O  Father  of 
mercies,  to  accept  our  prayer  and  intercessions  in 
behalf  of  this  our  sick  brother,  whom  we  humbly 
desire  to  commend  to  thy  compassionate  goodness. 
His  case,  O  Lord,  and  his  wants  are  all  before  thee ; 
help,  we  beseech  thee,  and  bless  him  according  as 
he  has  need. 


Here  may  be  used  any  of  the  following  Collects  which  shall  be  appropriate 
to  the  occasion. 

For  Sleep,  and  Rest,  and  temporal  Comforts. 

Grant  him,  O  Lord,  if  it  be  consistent  with  thy 
wisdom,  such  sleep  and  quiet  rest  as  may,  through 
thy  blessing,  refresh  his  spirits,  and  recruit  his 
strength.  Compose  and  tranquillize  his  mind ;  may 
he  be  freed  from  bodily  pains  and  distress,  and  from 
all  doubts,  needless  fears,  and  faithless  apprehen- 
sions. May  his  reason  be  clear,  and  his  mind  be  in 
a  suitable  state  for  religious  thoughts  and  medita- 
tions. Grant  him  such  temporal  comforts  as  shall 
help  him  to  make  the  right  improvement  from  the 
present  visitation.  And  give  him  grace  to  be  duly 
thankful  for  thy  goodness  vouchsafed  to  him  at  all 
times,  and  especially  during  his  present  sickness. 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  267 

For  Grace  to  make  Improvement. 
For  Patience  and  Resignation. 

•  -4* 
Whatever  may  be  the  pains,  and  the  weakness, 

and  other  sufferings,  which  them,  in  thy  unerring 
wisdom,  shalt  call  him  to  endure,  give  him  grace, 
we  entreat  thee,  to  bear  the  affliction  with  patience 
and  resignation  to  thy  holy  will,  saying,  with  thy 
servants  of  old,  It  is  the  Lord:  let  him  do  what 
seemeth  to  him  good  ;  though  he  slay  me,  yet  will 
I  trust  in  him.  May  he  remember  the  patience  of 
Job,  and  the  end  of  the  Lord,  who,  for  us  men,  and 
for  our  salvation,  endured  the  cross,  despising  the 
shame.  May  he  remember  the  days  that  are  past, 
and  thy  mercies  which  have  ever  been  of  old ;  that 
the  Lord  is  pitiful  and  long-suffering,  and  that  his 
mercy  endureth  forever.  May  a  sense  of  thy  daily 
goodness,  and  of  thy  promises  in  Jesus  Christ,  help 
him  in  patience  to  possess  his  soul.  According  to 
his  days  so  may  his  strength  be.  Knowing  that 
the  Lord  is  just  in  all  his  dealings,  and  righteous  in 
all  his  ways,  give  him  grace  in  every  trial,  and  in 
all  things  to  be  resigned  to  thy  holy  will. 


For  Grace  to  make  Improvement. 

We  beseech  thee,  O  Lord,  in  thy  merciful  good- 
ness, to  give  him  grace  to  make  due  improvement 
under  thy  chastising  hand.  Awaken  in  his  mind  a 
ju6t  and  lively  sense  of  thy  power  and  authority 
over  all  thy  creatures  and  all  thy  works,  and  cause 
him  to  have  a  greater  des^%'  that  this  affliction 
should  be  sanctified  to  his  spiritual  benefit,  than 
that  it  should  be  removed.  May  it  work  in  him 
repentance  not  to  be  repented  of,  and  awaken  in 
his  mind  a  serious  consideration  of  the  shortness 
and  uncertainty  of  his  continuance  in  this  present 
world.  May  he  call  to  remembrance  the  sins  of  his 


268  GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  a  new  Heart  and  a  lively  Faith. 

life  past,  and  plead,  in  a  holy  faith,  for  pardon  and 
forgiveness  through  Jesus  Christ.  O  hide  thy  face 
from  his  sins,  and  blot  out  all  his  iniquities.  May 
a  sense  of  his  weakness  add  strength  to  his  faith, 
and  seriousness  to  his  repentance,  and  earnestness 
to  his  prayers  for  pardon  and  acceptance ;  and  may 
he  so  rely  upon  thy  gracious  promises,  that  the 
language  of  his  soul  may  be,  For  me  to  live  is 
Christ,  and  to  die  is  gain. 


For  a  new  Heart  and  a  lively  Faith. 

Thou  hast  taught  us  in  thy  word,  that  except  a 
man  be  born  again  he  cannot  see  the  kingdom  of 
God ;  and  that  without  faith  we  live  in  sin.  We 
beseech  thee  to  enlighten  the  understanding  of  this 
thy  servant,  that  he  may  see  the  wonderful  things 
of  thy  law  ;  and  being  convinced  of  sin,  of  right- 
eousness, and  of  judgment,  may  look  unto  Jesus 
Christ  as  the  way,  and  the  truth,  and  the  life ;  and 
as  the  only  name  given  under  heaven  by  which 
men  can  be  saved.  Make  him  sensible  of  the  sin- 
fulness  of  his  nature,  and  cause  him  to  see  the 
wonders  of  thy  love  in  sending  thy  Son  into  this 
world,  that  they  who  believe  in  him  should  not 
perish,  but  have  eternal  life.  Awaken  in  his  soul 
an  earnest  desire  to  flee  from  the  wrath  to  come, 
and  to  lay  hold  on  eternal  life.  Grant  him  that 
holy  faith  in  Jesus  Christ  which  renews  the  heart, 
and  brings  forth  fruit  meet  for  repentance.  Reveal 
thyself  to  him  as  thou  dost  not  to  the  world  ;  sanc- 
tify all  his  affections,  and  renew  a  right  spirit  with- 
in him.  May  thy  promises  of  pardon,  and  accept- 
ance in  Jesus  Christ,  be  his  comfort  in  life,  and  his 
hope  in  a  dying  hour,  when  he  shall  resign  his 
spirit  to  thee,  as  into  the  hands  of  a  faithful  Creator. 
Remove  all  doubt  and  darkness  from  his  mind,  and 
give  him  a  clear  understanding  of  what  he  must  do 


GRIS  WOLD'S  PRAYERS.  269 

For  a  sick  Penitent. 

to  be  saved.  Not  trusting  in  his  own  righteousness, 
may  he  look  unto  Him  who  alone  has  the  words 
of  eternal  life,  and  is  the  end  of  the  law  for  right- 
eousness to  those  who  believe.  Being  justified  by 
faith,  may  he  have  peace  with  God  through  Jesus 
Christ. 

For  a  sick  Penitent. 

To  thee,  O  righteous  God,  belong  mercy  and 
forgiveness,  though  we  have  rebelled  against  thee. 
A  humble  spirit,  a  broken  and  contrite  heart,  thou 
wilt  not  despise.  Behold,  O  Lord,  in  mercy,  this 
thy  servant,  who  acknowledges  his  transgression, 
and  whose  sin  is  now  before  him.  The  remem- 
brance of  it  is  grievous  unto  him  ;  the  burthen  is 
more  than  he  can  bear.  Have  mercy  upon  him,  O 
God,  according  to  thy  loving  kindness:  according 
to  the  multitude  of  thy  tender  mercies,  blot  out  his 
transgressions.  Enter  not  into  judgment  with  thy 
servant,  O  Lord,  for  in  thy  sight  shall  no  man  living, 
for  his  own  merits,  be  justified.  A  broken  and  a 
contrite  heart  thou  wilt  not  despise.  O  wash  him 
thoroughly  from  his  iniquity,  and  cleanse  him  from 
his  sin.  Cause  him  to  hear  with  joy  and  gladness 
of  thy  mercy  revealed  in  Jesus  Christ.  Create  in 
him  a  clean  heart,  and  renew  a  right  spirit  within 
him,  that  his  soul  may  adore  thee  for  thy  goodness, 
and  all  that  is  in  him  may  praise  thy  holy  name. 
Strengthen  his  resolution  to  walk  in  the  way  of  thy 
commandments  ;  and  while  his  days  are  prolonged 
upon  the  earth,  to  devote  himself  to  thee  in  a  sober, 
righteous  and  godly  life. 


For  one  troubled  with  Doubts  or  Despondence. 

Just  art  thou,  0  Lord,  and  righteous  in  all  thy 
dealings  :  if  thou  withholdest  comfort  from  thy  sin- 
23* 


270  QRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS. 

For  Recovery  from  Sickness. 

ful  creatures,  the  punishment  is  less  than  our  sins 
deserve.  If  thou,  Lord,  shouldst  strictly  mark 
iniquities,  who  could  stand  ?  but  there  is  forgive- 
ness with  thee,  that  thy  people  may  not  despond, 
nor  faint  when  rebuked  of  thee.  Look,  we  entreat 
thee,  with  compassion  upon  this  thy  afflicted  servant, 
who  suffers  thy  terrors  with  a  troubled  mind.  Thou 
makest  him  to  possess  his  former  transgressions, 
and  through  apprehension  of  thy  displeasure  his 
soul  is  disquieted  within  him.  Thou  hast  caused 
all  holy  Scriptures  to  be  written  for  our  learning, 
that  we,  through  patience  and  comfort  of  thy  word, 
might  have  hope,  and  hast  promised  that  they  who 
mourn  for  their  sins  shall  be  comforted  ;  grant  unto 
him,  we  beseech  thee,  a  right  understanding  of 
himself,  and  of  thy  mercy  in  Jesus  Christ,  that  he 
may  neither  cast  away  his  confidence  in  thee,  nor 
place  it  in  any  beside  thee.  Speak  peace  to  his  trou- 
bled mind,  that  he  may  rejoice  in  the  comfort  of  thy 
pardoning  love.  Reveal  to  him  clearly  the  way  of 
his  duty,  and  what  he  must  do  to  be  saved.  In- 
crease his  faith ;  O  help  thou  his  unbelief.  Break  not 
the  bruised  reed,  nor  shut  up  thy  mercy  in  displea- 
sure. Preserve  him  from  all  faithless  apprehensions 
and  needless  fears.  In  the  multitude  of  the  thoughts 
and  the  sorrows  which  he  hath  in  his  heart,  may 
thy  comforts  refresh  his  soul.  Speak  peace  to  his 
troubled  mind :  lift  up  the  light  of  thy  countenance 
upon  him,  that  he  may  rejoice  in  the  hope  of  thy 
salvation. 

For  Recovery  from  Sickness. 

To  thee,  O  Lord,  belong  the  issues  of  life  and 
death :  all  medicines  act  by  thy  decree ;  all  means 
will  prevail  if  thou  direct  and  bless  them.  We 
humbly  ask  for  thy  blessing  upon  the  remedies 
which  may  be  prescribed  or  used  for  restoring  him 


GRISWOLD'S  PRAYERS.  271 

A  general  Prayer  for  the  Sick. 

to  health.,  and  strength.  Make  him  sensible  that 
thou  art  the  hope  of  all  the  ends  of  the  earth, — that 
to  thee  only  it  appertaineth  to  give  life  and  health, 
and  all  good  things,  and  that  without  thy  blessing 
vain  is  the  help  of  man.  Let  no  vain  confidence 
in  worldly  means,  or  human  skill,  diminish  his  hope 
and  trust  in  thee.  If  it  shall  be  thy  good  pleasure 
to  restore  him  to  health,  and  prolong  his  days  upon 
the  earth,  may  he  be  duly  thankful  for  thy  great 
goodness,  and  devote  them  to  thee  in  a  sober,  right- 
eous, and  Christian  life. 

And  wilt  thou,  O  Lord,  teach  us  to  pray,  and 
accept  our  prayers  for  all  who  are  any  ways 
afflicted  or  distressed  in  mind,  body,  or  estate ;  that 
it  may  please  thee  to  comfort  and  relieve  them 
according  to  their  several  necessities,  giving  them 
patience  under  their  sufferings,  and  a  happy  issue 
out  of  all  their  afflictions.  Extend,  we  beseech 
thee,  to  all  those  who  are  visited  with  'sickness, 
such  temporal  comforts,  and  spiritual  consolations, 
as  to  thy  wisdom  may  seem  fitting.  May  thy 
fatherly  correction  awaken  them  to  righteousness, 
and  raise  their  thoughts  from  the  world  to  thee. 
Look  upon  them  with  the  eyes  of  thy  mercy;  com- 
fort them  with  a  sense  of  thy  goodness ;  preserve 
them  from  the  temptations  of  the  enemy ;  give  them 
patience  under  their  affliction,  and  in  thy  good  time 
restore  them  to  health,  and  enable  them  to  lead  the 
residue  of  their  life  in  thy  fear,  and  to  thy  glory ;  or 
else  give  them  grace  so  to  take  thy  visitation,  that 
after  this  painful  life  is  ended,  they  may  dwell  with 
thee  in  life  everlasting,  through  Jesus  Christ,  our 
Lord.  Amen. 


3  1205  00894  0890 


\  countryman  stepped  into  a  Broad-street 
fruit-store  and  invested  in  a  nickel's  worth  of 
-  chestnuts.  In  half  an  hour  he  returned  and 
handed  the  proprietor  one  uf  the  uuts.  "  Waat 
does  thi.s  mean?"  asked  the  dealer.  "Well," 
rttuarked  the  customer,  ''that  is  the  only  sound 
chestnut  I  found  in  the  pint,  and  so  thought  yi>u 
had  put  u  ;n  by  mistake.  I  am  an  honest  man 
ai'd  drn't ',\ant  to  take  a  mean  advantage  of 
fellow."— [Athens  (Ga.) 


